The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has published its government response to the second phase of its digital transformation consultation, marking a pivotal step in overhauling IP services to align with evolving business needs. The reforms aim to streamline processes, enhance transparency, and deliver greater value for innovators and creators.
Key Reforms Announced
1. Online Access to Trademark and Design Documents
For the first time, trademark and design documents—including examination reports—will be made publicly available online through the new One IPO Search tool. This initiative, already in place for patents, will improve accessibility while allowing applicants to request confidentiality for sensitive information. Rules governing design document inspections will also be updated to expedite public availability.
2. Simplified Trademark Applications
The IPO will discontinue its "series marks" service for new applicants, citing confusion among users and limited legal value. In 2022, 39% of series mark applications were rejected for non-compliance, often leading to unnecessary costs. Existing series marks remain valid, but the service will cease upon the launch of the new digital trademarks platform.
3. Mediation Trials for IP Disputes
Starting summer 2025, the IPO Tribunal will trial mediation meetings for disputes involving unrepresented parties. This cost-effective alternative aims to resolve conflicts faster than traditional legal proceedings.
4. Extended Payment Periods
Fee payment deadlines for Supplementary Protection Certificates (SPCs) will be extended to align with other IP rights, simplifying processes for users.
5. Reduced Patent Inventor Address Disclosure
To protect personal data, the IPO will collect and publish less specific address details for patent inventors, adopting a more proportionate approach to privacy.
Implementation Timeline
· The new One IPO Search tool, launched in January 2025, has already facilitated over 10,000 patent searches. Trademark and design functionalities will be added later.
· The digital patents service pilot, involving 65 external users, will fully launch in autumn 2025.
· Trademark, design, and tribunal service updates are slated to begin development this autumn.
Background
The consultation, conducted from August to October 2023, gathered input from IP attorneys, businesses, and legal professionals. It builds on the IPO's first transformation phase, which focused on digital patent services.
Notes:
· The IPO's confidentiality rule changes will allow real-time public access to design documents unless a confidentiality request is filed.
· Existing series marks remain unaffected; the discontinuation applies only to new applications post-digital service launch.
· Address details for patent inventors will no longer include full street addresses.
This reform underscores the UK's commitment to fostering innovation through modern, user-centric IP services.
Information source: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-publishes-second-transformation-consultation-response
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