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With recent advances in computer technology, AI and ML are increasingly being used in products and services for the healthcare industry. Statistics from the World Intellectual Property Organisation also show increasing numbers of AI related patent applications being filed in the Life and Medical Sciences sector. It is, therefore, important to understand what types of invention can be protected in this area and why.
On 15 March 2020 the European Patent Office announced that in view of the disruptions arising from the COVID-19 outbreak, time limits expiring on or after that date were to be extended until 17 April 2020 under Rule 134(2) EPC.
Most Official Intellectual Property offices in the jurisdictions in which HGF operates remain fully operational at this time, but some are offering extensions to deadlines in order to support applicants and their attorneys who have been affected by the pandemic. See here for updates based on the situation on Tuesday 24th March 2020.
The EPO has announced the revised EPO Fees that will apply from 1 April 2020 in its Official Journal. The new amounts will apply to payments made on or after 1 April 2020.
This page provides information on any HGF office closures that may happen as a result of Corona virus safety measures in Europe and the UK.