In a Q&A feature with Westlaw Today, partner John Hemmer explained the opportunities that the US Patent and Trademark Office's (USPTO’s) new design patent bar provides.
The USPTO’s final rule, which went into effect on January 2, announced amendments to the rule of practice before the agency, aiming to accommodate those who thought the nature of design patents warranted a change.
Commenting on whether there would be an increase in applications for design patents, John said yes but not necessarily because of the design patent bar. “Design patents will continue to increase due to the desire for engaging, intuitive, and enjoyable user experiences and companies’ investment in creating and protecting these designs.”