Harry Bedford

Recent comparative testing reveals that Solve Intelligence's Patent Drafting Copilot consistently outperforms GPT-4o in European patent claim drafting. Here we explore the technical and practical limitations of using GPT-4o for drafting claims suitable for European practice, and how using Solve’s Patent Drafting Copilot can deliver substantial improvements.

A recent T-decision of the Boards of Appeal (T 1741/22) has provided an interesting deviation in how the EPO assesses the requirement of inventive step, from both a previous decision (T 2681/16) and the EPO Guidelines for Examination.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is already having a substantial impact in the practice of Intellectual Property (IP) Law, with platforms such as Solve Intelligence's Patent Copilot assisting attorneys in drafting and prosecuting patent applications. These AI platforms can help patent attorneys realise efficiency gains and help to provide high-quality patents. 

Until earlier this year, the use of AI was largely unregulated across the world. Now, the picture has somewhat changed, with different countries implementing different strategies when it comes to regulating AI, to promote safety but also to remain competitive. Earlier this year, the Artificial Intelligence Act entered into force in the EU, becoming the world's first comprehensive regulation for AI. In this article we have a look at the obligations that the EU AI Act puts on AI technology providers, such as providers of AI patent drafting and prosecution tools.

In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in the filing of patent applications relating to AI-inventions at the EPO. In response to this, the EPO has started and continues to develop a framework for assessing the eligibility and patentability of AI inventions, with the introduction of new guidelines and evolving case law. This article outlines key considerations, common pitfalls, and best practices for drafting patent applications directed to AI inventions at the EPO.

In today’s fast-paced environment, law firms and businesses are under increasing pressure to keep up with the growing demands of intellectual property (IP) management. Filing patent applications and performing related IP work can be very time-sensitive, with attorneys often expected to turn around work at the last minute to meet deadlines relating to product-releases or entries to the market from competitors, for example. It can be very difficult to predict future workflow, and managing all aspects in-house can be costly and inefficient. This is where patent outsourcing comes in as a valuable solution to help streamline operations. By outsourcing patent work, firms can focus on their core competencies while benefiting from external expertise and cost savings.

As global innovation accelerates, the United Kingdom finds itself at a critical juncture. Despite ranking among the top nations in the world for innovation, UK businesses, particularly SMEs, are falling behind in securing international patent protection. A recent report from The Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA) reveals a concerning trend: while global patent filings hit record numbers, British companies are struggling to keep pace, risking their competitive edge in key international markets. In an increasingly interconnected world, securing international patents is not just a strategic advantage - it's a necessity for financial growth, enabling companies to maximise the commercial potential of their innovations on a global scale.