United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) officials recently reiterated to all patent examiners that they must provide clear, consistent analysis regarding means-plus-function and step-plus-function limitations. ...more
On February 6, 2024, the USPTO weighed in with guidance for practitioners using—or considering using—AI in preparing submissions to the USPTO. In essence, Director Kathi Vidal has reminded practitioners that they must sign...more
The Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) is now accepting petitions for expedited resolution of ex parte appeals. Launched last week, the “Fast-Track Appeals Pilot Program” aims to decide the average patent appeal within six...more