Apple ordered to stop iPhone 6 sales in Beijing

Apple has been ordered to stop selling two versions of its iPhone 6 in Beijing after a Chinese regulator found they look too much like a competitor's product.

The intellectual property tribunal said the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus looked too similar to the 100C model made by Shenzhen Beili, a small Chinese brand.

However, Apple has said a Beijing court stayed the administrative order on appeal and its sales will continue for now.

The order was issued in May but reported by the Chinese press this week.

Apple shares fell 2.3 per cent after the news emerged, Sky News reports.

The setback represents the latest legal stumbling block for Apple in its second-biggest global market following the suspension of its iTunes movie service in April.

The company also faces rising competition from local brands including Huawei and Xiaomi, which have gained market share.

In May, Apple suffered another setback when a court ruled that a Chinese company is allowed to use the iPhone trademark on bags, wallets and other leather goods.

Additional reporting by AP