USPTO's Semiconductor Technology Pilot Program

Accelerating Innovation: Navigating the USPTO’s New Path for Semiconductor Patents

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) recently announced an important initiative that could significantly impact the semiconductor industry. On November 30, 2023, the USPTO unveiled the Semiconductor Technology Pilot Program (STPP), a strategic move to bolster research, development, and innovation in semiconductor manufacturing.

This program aligns with the objectives of the CHIPS for America program, emphasizing the critical role of semiconductors in modern technology and national security.

Overview of the Semiconductor Technology Pilot Program

The STPP aims to accelerate advancements in the semiconductor sector by expediting the patent examination process for specific semiconductor manufacturing innovations. This initiative reflects the USPTO’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting industries that are vital to the nation’s economic and technological growth.

Key aspects of the STPP include:

Expedited Examination: The program offers a faster review process for patent applications related to semiconductor manufacturing, thereby reducing the time it takes to obtain patent protection for new innovations.

Eligibility and Duration: The USPTO began accepting petitions for the STPP on December 1, 2023. The program is set to run until December 2, 2024, or until 1,000 grantable petitions are accepted, whichever occurs first.

Application Requirements: Similar to the Climate Change Mitigation Pilot Program (CCMPP) launched in June 2022, applications for the STPP must be filed electronically using the Patent Center. Additionally, the specification, claims, and abstract of the patent application must be submitted in DOCX format either at the time of filing the application or upon national stage entry.

Significance for the Semiconductor Industry

The semiconductor industry is a cornerstone of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones to advanced computing systems. By accelerating the patent examination process for semiconductor innovations, the STPP provides a tangible incentive for companies and researchers to invest in this critical field. This initiative not only supports technological advancement but also contributes to national economic and security interests.

The Semiconductor Technology Pilot Program is a significant step by the USPTO to promote innovation in a crucial industry. By offering expedited patent examination for semiconductor manufacturing innovations, the program underscores the importance of this sector to the nation’s technological and economic future. Learn more at the USPTO.

How Founders Legal Can Assist

At Founders Legal, we understand the complexities and nuances of patent law, especially in rapidly evolving sectors like semiconductor technology. Our team of experienced and knowledgeable attorneys can provide guidance and assistance in navigating the STPP.

We can help clients prepare and file patent applications, ensuring compliance with the specific requirements of the STPP and maximizing the chances of a successful outcome. Schedule a Consultation Today!

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Yuri L. Eliezer

Intellectual Property Attorney and Managing Partner at Founders Legal

Yuri heads the Intellectual Property practice group at Founders Legal in Atlanta, Georgia.A practice he co-founded at the Atlanta Tech Village – the nation’s fourth largest incubator.He specializes in preparing, developing, and executing strategies for securing patents nationally and internationally. He focuses his work on developing IP portfolio of high value, and helps clients to licensing and acquisition deals to monetize on their IP rights.He has secured patents, negotiated and executed domestic and international IP deals in the Software, Internet/Telecom, Computer, Electrical, and Medical Device fields. His team also prosecutes patents in the Mechanical, Aerospace, Biotech, and Pharmaceutical industries.

His degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering has helped him serve technology companies of all sizes including Microsoft, Cisco, Cox, AT&T, General Electric, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Coca Cola.

Eliezer’s technological knowledge, entrepreneurial expertise, and nuanced perspective on technological innovation, has attracted national media coverage, of the likes of NPR, CNN, and The International Business Times. Eliezer also applies his wide-ranging experiences as an Advisor to the Atlanta Tech Village, where he provides guidance to a community of 120 startup companies.

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