USPTO is pushing towards further modernization

[Robert Pluta, Mayer Brown IP partner, trial lawyer, Wade Weaver, Mayer Brown IP associate, 12-18-23, “USPTO 2023 Year in Review: E-Filings and Rulemakings and AI, Oh My!,” https://ipwatchdog.com/2023/12/18/uspto-year-review-2023-e-filings-rulemakings-ai-oh/id=170521/, 7-11-24, EP]

“A practitioner can only hope that if these new rules are even partially effective, there will be a noticeable increase in efficiency for all parties involved.” The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s (USPTO’s) 2023 has been one marked by a push towards further modernization and reduction of environmental impact, while also attempting to increase administrative efficiency. The Office has also solicited and received zealous commentary from an interested public regarding proposed changes to Patent Trial and Appeals Board (PTAB) proceedings. Lastly, in continuation of last year’s prevailing theme, the USPTO has begun generating reports, holding listening sessions, and publishing Director’s blogs regarding the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) as it pertains to both inventorship and as a subject of invention.