UKIPO Tightens Rules on Broad Trade Mark Specs & more…Keep up with what has been happening this week in our latest IP news round-up…

Government launches SEPs Consultation to Boost UK Innovation

The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has launched a consultation on potential measures to address challenges in the UK’s Standard Essential Patents (SEPs) ecosystem.

China deepens global IP cooperation with over 80 partners

China has established partnerships with over 80 countries and regions in intellectual property (IP) cooperation.

UKIPO Tightens Rules on Broad Trade Mark Specs

Following the Supreme Court’s decision in SkyKick UK Ltd v Sky Ltd [2024] UKSC 36, the UKIPO has now issued a much-anticipated ‘Practice Amendment Notice’ (‘PAN 1/25’) about the implications of this decision on the Office’s approach to examining new trade mark applications for bad faith, as well as on opposition and cancellation actions.

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and their patentability at the UKIPO and EPO

The UK’s highest court will determine whether Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are to be deemed computer programs as such.

New decision supports registering appearance of packaging and signage as trade marks

Recent UK court cases have highlighted how important it can be to look beyond registering plain word trade marks, and ensure there is also protection for other elements.