A long-running trademark spat between O2 and 3 over the use of bubbles looks set to be nearing the end of the legal road.

O2 sued 3, which celebrated its third birthday last week, back in 2004 over allegations that the 3G outfit used bubbles in its ads. O2 insists bubbles are part of its brand and, as such, is fiercely protective of its, erm, bubbles.

In a statement, a spokesman for O2, which is now owned by Spanish telco Telefonica, said: "We have made substantial investment in our brand which is fundamental to the success of our business. We will always defend it.

"O2's case is that the advert by 3 took unfair advantage of O2's trademark bubbles in addition to treating them in a denigratory manner. Where we feel that our trademark has been infringed and/or the public could be misled, we'll take whatever action we consider necessary."

A judgement on the High Court action is expected within the next couple of weeks. ®