Intellectual Property

Patent Office Introduces AI Capability for Search

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) introduced new artificial intelligence (AI) capability for examiner searching. The bulletin regarding this announcement can be found here.  In the bulletin, it is explained that the AI system can be used by examiners to assist in conducting searches for prior art during the examination process of the patent application. This process is generally referred to as patent prosecution.

The AI based tool will allow examiners to use selected application information such as, for example, the specification of an application, as an input and use the trained AI modules to produce a list of domestic and foreign patent documents that are similar to the patent application being searched. However, the bulletin is careful to note that the examiner will not be limited by the AI search tool. Instead, the examiner will be able to use the AI search tool to supplement their typical search, or to supplement an AI search with manual searching.

What does this mean for patent practitioners and inventors? Typical lawyer answer inbound – we are not really sure yet. It is my hope that the introduction of AI search capabilities will result in faster turnarounds during the patent application process. When I checked the patent dashboard today, the current pendency for a patent application to receive a first look by an examiner (referred to as a first Office action) is 18.5 months. It is also my hope that the use of AI search capabilities will provide more accurate and detailed searches so that patents can better withstand invalidity attacks after they are issued.

We will have a better idea of how the use of AI search capabilities will affect the patent application process as time goes on, and we will be sure to bring you updates as we receive them. If you need any assistance with your patent needs, please do not hesitate to contact me, or any of the patent attorneys at Widerman Malek.

Recent Posts

Common Divorce Pitfalls: What to Watch For and How to Protect Yourself

At Widerman Malek, our team has helped numerous clients manage the complexities of divorce in…

1 day ago

The Importance of Proper Inventorship in Patents

In the world of intellectual property, inventorship is a critical and often misunderstood concept. Determining…

1 week ago

The Unique Value of Mediation in Business Disputes

When it comes to resolving business disputes, mediation offers a uniquely effective approach that goes…

2 weeks ago

Widerman Malek Honors JA’s 2025 Laureates Reception

Widerman Malek is excited to sponsor the Junior Achievement of the Space Coast Business Hall…

2 weeks ago
Alert: Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Deadlines Extended – March 21, 2025, Deadline AnnouncedAlert: Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Deadlines Extended – March 21, 2025, Deadline Announced

Alert: Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Deadlines Extended – March 21, 2025, Deadline Announced

Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) is back in effect…

3 weeks ago
Attorney Jeff Smith Joins Widerman Malek’s Celebration Office, Expanding Family Law and Business Litigation ServicesAttorney Jeff Smith Joins Widerman Malek’s Celebration Office, Expanding Family Law and Business Litigation Services

Attorney Jeff Smith Joins Widerman Malek’s Celebration Office, Expanding Family Law and Business Litigation Services

We are excited to welcome attorney Jeff Smith to the firm’s Celebration office. Bringing over…

1 month ago