A raft of changes to the Patents Rules 2007 came into force on 1 October, including a simplified process for granting patents.
From that date, the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) will issue a new notification of intention to grant, giving applicants one or two months’ notice. No further action on their part will be required.
From 1 October, applicants will simply have 12 months from termination of their application to request reinstatement.
A two-month extension to the period for providing an address for service will be allowed, as long as applicants file the appropriate request form and pay a fee. Previously, no extension was available.
Black and white photographs and shading in drawings will be permitted in patent applications.
The IPO has also provided clarification on when applicants can amend an international patent application that is entering the UK national phase. It will continue to be possible to amend applications during this stage.
