Under new leadership, the United States Patent and Trademark Office has recently adjusted its approach to patentability of artificial intelligence technologies in multiple meaningful respects.
Continue Reading Recalibrating AI Patent Strategy: What the USPTO Shift Means — and What it Doesn’t
Patent examiners have had access to AI-driven prior art searching since late 2022, but its use is expanding and is now even required in some technology groups (art units). Chief
Continue Reading Patent Examiner AI Searches: Required AI-Based Searching
The Federal Circuit’s recent decision in PowerBlock Holdings, Inc. v. iFit, Inc., No. 2024-1177 (Fed. Cir. Aug. 11, 2025), a rare opinion finding challenged claims eligible, offers new guidance on the boundaries of patent eligibility under 35 U.S.C. § 101. While the case centers on selectorized dumbbells—a mechanical invention—the court’s reasoning provides valuable lessons for patent practitioners, particularly those drafting claims for AI and software-based inventions.
Continue Reading PowerBlock Holdings, Inc. v. iFit, Inc.: A Rare Patent Eligibility Opinion
Quantum computing companies regularly file patent applications, but will the patents that result expire before they are commercially relevant, or could they skyrocket in value in a few years? As
Continue Reading Considerations For Patenting Advances in Quantum Computing
Patents buttress and backstop growth for medical technology (medtech) companies, period. This is especially so for early-stage ventures staking their claim in the medtech ecosystem. A strategic patent portfolio is
Continue Reading Mind the gap: Strengthen your patent portfolio with a white space analysis
This 5 Trends piece covers specialized offerings, autonomous vehicle companies, the drone industry, robotic-assisted surgeries, and intellectual property in robotics industry.
Continue Reading 5 Trends to Watch: 2024 Robotics
The search for a vaccine for the COVID-19 strain of coronavirus has put the spotlight once again on the innovative pharmaceuticals sector. As pharmaceutical companies and innovators across the globe work diligently on a vaccine, many of these companies may be looking to protect their innovation. While patents have many benefits, in the face of a global health emergency, there are some key factors innovators should consider.
Timeline for Patent Registration
Patents can provide broad protection for invention and innovation. They can also create a significant advantage in the marketplace. However, patent registration takes time and may require significant resources. According to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), on average, it takes approximately 22 months to get patent approval. This period may be shortened by taking advantage of one of the USPTO’s accelerated examination procedures and may be shortened by utilizing the USPTO prioritized examination option, where a final decision on patentability is made within 12 months from the filing date of the patent application.
Continue Reading The Race for a COVID-19 Vaccine is On: Key Factors May Impact Patent Protection
On April 28, 2020, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced a new extension of certain submissions and fees under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act
Continue Reading USPTO Announces Extensions Under CARES Act
On March 31, 2020, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced extension of certain submissions and fees under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act)
Continue Reading USPTO Announces Possible Extensions Under CARES Act