Inventor News Update – Thursday, January 23, 2025 Here are the latest updates and news stories curated for inventors: __________ Coke Morgan Stewart Named Acting Director of the USPTO Source: IPWatchdog At precisely 12:01 PM on January 20, 2025, following President Donald J. Trump's oath of office, Coke Morgan Stewart was sworn in as the new Acting Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Stewart brings a wealth of experience, having previously served in senior management roles within the USPTO and as Deputy Attorney General for Virginia. She is widely recognized as a strong advocate for the U.S. patent system and an ally for startups and small businesses relying on IP protection. Stewart will serve in the Acting Director role until a Senate-confirmed nominee is appointed by the administration. Read more: https://ipwatchdog.com/2025/01/20/trump-names-coke-stewart-acting-director-uspto/id=185229/ __________ USPTO Announces New Artificial Intelligence Strategy Source: USPTO The USPTO has unveiled a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy to address the challenges and opportunities posed by AI across intellectual property policy, agency operations, and the broader innovation ecosystem. The strategy focuses on five key areas: 1. Promoting inclusive and responsible AI innovation. 2. Enhancing USPTO capabilities through advanced computational tools and data. 3. Leveraging AI to improve IP examination processes. 4. Building AI expertise within the USPTO workforce. 5. Collaborating with U.S. and international partners to guide AI’s future. The strategy aims to ensure that the U.S. remains a global leader in innovation, reinforcing the role of AI in advancing intellectual property development. Learn more at: https://www.uspto.gov/subscription-center/2025/uspto-announces-new-artificial-intelligence-strategy-empower-responsible __________ Five Questions for the Next USPTO Director Source: IPWatchdog As the Trump Administration transitions, Howard Lutnick, the nominee for Commerce Secretary, will oversee the selection of the next USPTO Director. In an open letter, IP expert John White outlines five critical questions to guide this decision: 1. Support for the Patent System: Does the candidate believe in and advocate for the importance of patents in driving innovation? 2. Operational Efficiency: Can the candidate address growing application backlogs and improve patent examination timelines? 3. Advancing Patent Eligibility: How will they support legislative changes to clarify and expand what is eligible for patent protection? 4. PTAB Reforms: Can they align PTAB processes with district court standards for patent validity challenges? 5. Restoring Injunctions: Will they push for stronger enforcement mechanisms for patent holders? The role of USPTO Director is pivotal in shaping America’s innovation landscape. This decision will influence patent policies and practices for years to come. Read the full article at: https://ipwatchdog.com/2025/01/22/five-questions-new-commerce-secretary-ask-vetting-uspto-director/id=185300/ __________ Stay tuned for more updates from InventorNews!

Posted by InventorNews at 2025-01-23 16:38:26 UTC