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Sky contests Skype branding

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By The Drum Team, Editorial

August 10, 2010 | 2 min read

Rupert Murdoch's BSkyB is opposing plans by web telephone company Skype to register its bubble logo as a trademark as it is concerned consumers may confuse it with Sky.

The dispute emerged in regulatory documents Skype had to publish as part of its recently announced plans to float on the Nasdaq stock exchange.

The broadcasting behemoth has opposed Skype's trademark applications in the European Union, Norway, India and Brazil.

Skype said that its applications “in respect of the Skype name are being opposed by BSkyB plc”.

It added that it had won the right to use its name in Switzerland, Turkey and Brazil, but said the European Union has ruled in favour of Sky, a decision it plans to appeal.

Fiona McBride, trademark attorney at Withers & Rogers LLP, said: “This challenge by BSkyB may have been prompted by Skype’s plans to expand its operations into TV and phones.

“Skype is concerned that, should opposition be successful, third parties will be free to use its name. However, as they have been operating for a number of years and have probably established their own reputation in a number of countries, they should be able to block any potential misuse based on their rights through use. Whilst this would be more costly and time intensive, they would still have legal recourse against such misuse.”

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