Conducting a patent search for mobile apps can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is important to ensure that the app is not infringing on any existing patents. Here are some steps that can be taken to conduct a patent search for mobile apps like a pro:
- Define the scope of the search: Clearly define the scope of the search, including the specific features and functionality of the app, and the technology and industry it relates to.
- Use the right search tools: Use a combination of online search tools such as the USPTO website and Google Patents, and specialized patent search software to conduct a thorough search.
- Use keywords and Boolean operators: Use relevant keywords and Boolean operators to narrow down the search results and find relevant patents.
- Review the results: Review the search results and read the full text of any relevant patents to ensure that the app does not infringe on any existing patents.
- Consult with a patent attorney: A patent attorney can assist in the search process and provide guidance on interpreting the search results and determining whether the app is likely to infringe on any existing patents.
- Consider similar apps: search for similar apps or existing patents related to your field, this can give you an idea of what is already patented and what is not.
- Check for expired patents: While conducting the search, it is important to also check for expired patents that may have been renewed or still in force, as these can also be a source of infringement.
Mobile App Trends
Mobile app technology is constantly evolving, and it can be challenging to predict future trends and developments. However, some current and potential trends in mobile app development include:
- Increased use of artificial intelligence and machine learning: AI and machine learning are being used to create more personalized and interactive mobile apps, such as chatbots and virtual assistants.
- More use of augmented reality and virtual reality: AR and VR technologies are becoming more mainstream and are being used in mobile apps for gaming, education, and other purposes.
- Greater emphasis on security: With the increasing amount of personal data stored on mobile devices, there will be a greater emphasis on security and privacy in mobile apps, including the use of biometric authentication and encryption.
- More use of 5G technology: As 5G networks become more widely available, mobile apps will be able to take advantage of faster data speeds and lower latency to provide new and improved experiences.
- Progressive web apps (PWAs) : PWAs are web apps that can be accessed through the browser, they are fast and responsive, and they can be added to the home screen of the user’s device. This can help companies to reach more users and save on app store fees.
- More wearable and IoT integration: Mobile apps will increasingly be integrated with IoT devices to provide 360 degree monitoring of the user.
In a parallel trend, 5G technology is expected to have a significant impact on mobile app development, with faster data speeds and lower latency enabling new and improved experiences for users. Here are some ways in which 5G technology is expected to impact mobile apps:
- Faster download and streaming: With 5G, mobile apps will be able to download and stream content much faster, allowing for higher quality videos, games, and virtual reality experiences.
- Improved real-time communication: 5G technology will enable faster and more reliable real-time communication for mobile apps, such as video conferencing and online gaming.
- Increased connectivity: 5G technology will support more devices and higher density of users, which will allow for more connected and collaborative mobile experiences.
- New possibilities for IoT and Edge computing: 5G technology will enable new possibilities for Internet of Things (IoT) and edge computing, allowing for more connected devices and services, and providing a better and faster experience for the user.
- Enhanced location-based services: 5G technology will enable more accurate location-based services, such as indoor positioning and location-based augmented reality.
As 5G technology becomes more widely available, mobile app developers will have more opportunities to create new and innovative mobile apps that take advantage of the faster speeds and lower latency provided by 5G networks.
Prior art search
A prior art search is a nifty way to verify your invention isn’t infringing on someone else’s patent. It’s also a great way to avoid expensive litigation. In addition to checking to see if your invention has infringed on someone’s patent, a search can help you strengthen your claims.
A good patent search will include a combination of patents, trade publications and non-patent literature. The most comprehensive searches will likely be conducted in the global patent literature. However, the United States Patent and Trademark Office has an overwhelming backlog of applications to wade through, and a few years in the sun may be required to get your new invention approved.
An innovative search tool is Derwent Innovation. This patent database contains prior art from both domestic and international sources. Its patent and technology databases are indexed using CPC Classifications, which are a set of standard classifications developed by the U.S. and European patent offices.
Other tools are available in the form of a thesaurus and a handy storage area to keep track of text information. To learn more about these useful tools, visit the Derwent Innovation website.
You should also check out Google’s patent search feature. Although this isn’t used by many, it’s a clever way to look for the novelty of the month, or the newest patented technologies.
While it’s not likely you’ll perform a comprehensive search on the same platform, it’s worth the effort. There are many free and paid patent databases that can be used for this purpose. But if you’re looking to perform a more thorough search, the best resource is likely to be TechInsights’ Prior Art Technical Library, which offers a suite of subscription packages designed to meet specific needs.
Basic search
There are many benefits to patenting your mobile app. It provides you with a legal shield if someone infringes your creation. It also enables you to take legal action against any infringer.
For example, if you have a real estate search app, you could file for a patent to prevent others from copying your invention. This is an excellent idea because your app will be protected from infringement and theft. However, you should remember that not all applications are worthy of patenting.
To patent your mobile app, you need to decide whether your invention has merit. For example, does it solve a problem? Does it have a novel design? How does it interact with the user? These are all important questions to consider before filing a patent.
In order to make your search a little easier, you can use one of several online tools. Many of these offer free searches for patents. You can search for patents from other countries and find out if they are applicable to your invention.
Another option is to get help from a commercial information broker. The company’s experts can perform a worldwide search for applications similar to yours.
If you want a more hands-on experience, you can also ask your local patent attorney for assistance. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to receive pro bono help.
While searching for patents, it is a good idea to consider using a patent search app. Several apps, including the USPTO, allow you to conduct a thorough search. Most of these allow you to access a database that contains hundreds of published patents.
When performing a patent search, be sure to use the right keywords to find the best results. Keywords like “iPad”, “mobile”, “iPhone”, and “Phone” are good start-off points.
Advanced search
Whether you are developing a mobile app or simply want to patent your own, you’ll need to perform an advanced patent search. The USPTO offers a number of tools to do so, all of which are free.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) maintains a comprehensive database of pending and issued patents. In addition to this, the agency also has a Public Search Facility that provides the public with access to patent and trademark information. Depending on your needs, you can use the Basic or Advanced Search tool.
The Advanced Search tool allows you to filter your search based on the databases you choose. You can filter by patent class, filing date, or subject matter. Similarly, you can also tag documents and organize them through filters and tagging.
For example, if you are searching for a mobile application, you can use the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) tool to locate patents in the countries you plan to work with. WIPO’s Regional IP Databases include machine translation for several languages. Also, the IPC Catchword Index is a comprehensive list of international patent identifiers.
Another option is Google Patents. While it may not have the full text of a particular patent, you can browse through an Electronic Official Gazette to see if a particular application is filed in your country. Similarly, you can also check the Global Dossier. This is a database that contains file histories from participating IP Offices.
Several patent sites offer additional search features for a fee. Using free tools can produce results that are inaccurate or unrelated to what you actually need.
To get started, you’ll need to enter your search term. After that, the patent search tool will display relevant results.
Check if any other party already patented your app
Whether you are a start-up or an established developer, you should do an app patent search before filing your own. This will help ensure that your app will not be sued.
The process of app patenting is not easy. It requires an attorney to help you with the process. Using a qualified attorney can ensure that you have a better chance of getting your patent approved.
There are many aspects of an app that can be patented. Some of them include data privacy, messaging services, server processing, database creation, and networking. However, if your app is not useful, it is more difficult to get a patent on it.
Before you file a patent, you need to make sure that your idea is completely unique. Apps that are based on a concept already existing in the public domain are not eligible for patenting. You may be able to secure your patent through a trademark, however.
A patent is only granted to an invention that is useful, non-obvious, and provides a solution to a problem. Moreover, the app itself should not have been previously patented.
To determine if your app has been patented, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) recommends doing an advanced search. They also provide a video guide on how to perform the search.
The USPTO also maintains a comprehensive database of pending patents. Performing a patent search will not only allow you to determine if your app has been patented, but it will also help you decide if it is necessary to apply for a patent.
Depending on the type of mobile app you have, you may need to file a patent application. If your app is considered a service or a product, you will have to pay a fee for the patent. Applicants can submit their application by mail or online.
Use of AI search tools
Artificial intelligence (AI) search tools can be an effective way to find prior art when conducting a patent search for mobile apps. AI search tools can analyze large amounts of data and identify relevant prior art in a way that is faster and more efficient than manual searches. Some of the benefits of using AI search tools for mobile app prior art include:
- Speed and efficiency: AI search tools can quickly analyze large amounts of data and identify relevant prior art in a way that is faster and more efficient than manual searches.
- Improved accuracy: AI search tools can analyze complex data and identify relevant prior art with a high degree of accuracy.
- Language independence: AI search tools can analyze text in multiple languages, which can be useful when searching for prior art in other countries.
- Relevance: AI search tools can identify relevant prior art based on a variety of factors, including text, images, and other data.
- Automated analysis: AI search tools can automatically analyze large amounts of data and identify relevant prior art, which can save time and resources.
However, it is worth noting that AI search tools are not a substitute for human expertise and judgement, it is important to review the results of the AI search and consult with a patent attorney to interpret the results and determine the relevance of the prior art to the mobile app.
Protect your app from patent infringement
If you have a mobile app, you want to make sure you aren’t infringing on someone’s intellectual property. There are several ways to do this. One option is to apply for a patent. But this can be a long and expensive process. It can also delay your business plans. To find out if your idea qualifies for patent protection, follow these steps:
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) will determine whether your invention is patentable. They will review your idea, and will look at it from different angles. For instance, they will see if it has been previously published, and if it functions in a unique way. You will also be asked to document your app’s processes.
Another way to protect your app is to apply for a trademark. A trademark will protect your company name, logo, designs, and symbols. This type of protection is often cheap, and will protect your app’s user interface.
You may also be able to apply for a utility patent. These are granted for 20 years from the date of filing. However, this form of protection does not cover the source code.
Your mobile app might be eligible for a patent if it is non-obvious. This means it was not obvious to an expert in your field. An example of this would be a general principle, algorithm, or concept.
You should search the USPTO’s Patent Full-Text and Image Database, which covers all text and images from 1976 to the present. In addition, you should do a quick search in the Manual of Classification.
Once you have determined whether your idea qualifies for patent protection, you can submit a patent application. You can either file a provisional or full application.