Computer software

The software sector continues to grow rapidly, with developments producing everything from low-level software systems or embedded software, to high-level application software, such as database systems, office applications and educational software.

Many developments in the sector underpin innovations in nearly all areas of technology, such as automotive, medical devices, energy and IoT, amongst others. As such, software plays a major role in research and development across most industries.

Various considerations arise in protecting computer software-based developments, particularly around whether or not the various, differing requirements of European patent law, and the law in other jurisdictions for patenting software, are fulfilled.  Other considerations include the detectability of third-party implementations, a desirability to retain knowledge of the software as a trade secret, and open-source considerations.

HGF’s specialist patent attorneys with experience in the software sector have a broad knowledge base and many clients in this fast-moving, complex field. As such, our team possesses the skills required in identifying patentable computer-implemented inventions and securing strong IP protection for software technologies.

The HGF team draws on its broad understanding of technical processes behind the software and key academic insight to provide in-house patent departments, companies, SMEs and academia involved with software technologies with world-leading IP strategies, delivering our full range of IP services.

Latest updates

Patents and AI – An interview with ChatGPT

It is almost beyond doubt that AI is going to have a significant impact on our lives and industries. The field of intellectual property will not be exempt from this. …

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Eye-Catching Innovations in Jet Engine Technology, Part 2: Noise Reduction

Continuing my series of short blog posts on developments in jet engine technology revealed by 2023 patent application publications, I turn to Rolls-Royce (R-R). It’s interesting to note that there …

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Navigating the quantum leap: patenting the future of quantum software

For many years, successfully patenting software-related inventions had a reputation – in our experience unjustified – as being difficult and confusing.  Whilst most legal systems have now developed a consistent …

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High Court’s AI Patent Ruling: A Turning Point for the Patentability of AI?

A recent decision by the UK High Court has delivered a highly favourable verdict for AI innovators, which could change the way that the patentability of AI-related inventions is assessed …

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Investing in Patents for Space Tech: Safeguarding Innovations in the Space Sector

The advent of commercial launch capabilities has opened up space as a unique frontier for innovation. However, in space, any acts of patent infringement almost always go unseen. Thus, it’s …

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AI-Powered Personalised Medicine

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into healthcare has ushered in a new era of personalised medicine, promising more effective and tailored treatments for patients. Traditional medical approaches often adopt …

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Event - 11th October 2023

Lexology Webinar: Exploring Common Ground and Contrasts in Patenting Software Inventions

Time: 14.00 – 15.00 UTC HGF Patent Director, Dr Janine Swarbrick will be speaking on the upcoming Lexology webinar: Across Continents: Exploring Common Ground and Contrasts in Patenting Software Inventions …

Event details

IAM Patent 1000 2023

IAM Patent 1000 the world’s leading patent professionals 2023 guide has now been published and we are delighted to have 31 attorneys recognised as world-class individuals in the guide. The …

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Let's talk

If you would like to discuss how HGF could help you, contact one of our computer software specialists.