The promise of the Unitary Patent System

From smart phones to vaccinations to lightbulbs, patents are an integral part of the virtuous cycle of innovation behind the inventions we rely on every day. But as important and ubiquitous as patents are, the process of gaining protection can be cumbersome.

On June 1st, the Unified Patent Court started, the final piece in the transition to a Unitary Patent System. The rationale behind the Unitary Patent System is that it will make things simpler, faster, and less expensive for inventors. Under the new system, it will be possible to get patent protection in up to 17 EU Member states by submitting a single request to the European Patent Office (EPO), with the option of more member states to come.

So, why is this good news for inventors? This system provides a streamline and harmonized approach to patent protection across participating countries, eliminating the need for separate patents in each jurisdiction. Rather than needing to validate and maintain European patents individually in each country where they take effect, the EPO serves as a one-stop-shop, allowing for a simple registration of a Unitary Patent. This greatly simplifies the process and at the end reduces costs, thus allowing for a greater investment in research and development. At Ericsson we are fully determined to make strong use of the new system.

This system also fosters a more efficient and predictable framework for patent disputes, with the Unified Patent Court resolving conflicts in a consistent and specialized manner. But what’s particularly exciting about it is that the new system promotes more collaboration and knowledge-sharing among inventors and companies from different countries – and that’s the key driver of innovation.

As early adopters of the Industry Patent Quality Charter (IPQC), Ericsson is particularly invested in prioritizing quality patents that help us continue contributing to cutting-edge standards and technologies. Through IPQC, we work to help ensure patents are searched and examined with care and are committed to hold a continuous dialogue with the EPO, if they are willing to engage. Further we are committed to encourage complete searches, thorough examinations, if needed interviews and oral hearings throughout the entire patent-granting process. Without the ability to share knowledge and technology under the protection of patents, none of the technological advancements we enjoy every day would be possible. As we look to the future of cellular technology, systems like this help us protect and capitalize on its R&D investments by creating, securing, protecting and licensing a portfolio of patents. By simplifying procedures and promoting innovation, the Unitary Patent System holds great promise for inventors, businesses, and the European economy as a whole.

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