The world of intellectual property is no longer just about protecting an idea; it's becoming a central arena for geopolitical and technological competition. For businesses and innovators, understanding the shifting global patent landscape is critical. Here are the key forces reshaping patent strategy in 2025.
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is set to enhance the security of its online systems with the implementation of more robust multi-factor authentication (MFA) starting November 1, 2025. This move marks a significant step forward in safeguarding intellectual property (IP) filings, management, and customer information against escalating cyber threats.
When inventors publicly disclose their inventions before filing a patent application, they often worry about losing the right to patent their ideas. This is where the concept of a grace period becomes crucial. The grace period allows inventors a window of time after public disclosure to file a patent application without forfeiting their rights. However, the rules for grace periods vary significantly across countries.
After years of watching patent attorneys argue over whether you need to check the description when a claim seems "clear enough," the EPO's Enlarged Board of Appeal has put an end to the debate. Their June 18, 2025 decision in Case G 0001/24 is refreshingly straightforward: always look at the description and drawings when interpreting claims for patentability.
Patent conflicts of interest aren't just abstract compliance issues—they're real problems that can kill deals, end careers, and cost companies millions.