USPTO Subject Matter Eligibility Declarations Memo

The USPTO issued a memorandum on December 4, 2025, to the Patent Examining Corps regarding subject matter eligibility under Section 101. The memo highlights the precedential Appeals Review Panel decision in re Desjardins and clarifies the application of the Alice framework, emphasizing that improvements in computational performance can constitute patent-eligible advancements. It also reminds examiners and applicants of the existing Subject Matter Eligibility Declaration (SMED) option.

USPTO Guidance for Design Patents on Computer-Generated Interfaces

The USPTO has issued new guidance for the examination of design patent applications related to computer-generated interfaces and icons. This guidance, effective March 13, 2026, outlines procedures for examiners and applies to all relevant applications filed on or after this date.

USPTO Guidance on Design Patent Applications for Computer-Generated Images

The USPTO has issued supplemental guidance for its personnel regarding the examination of design patent applications that include computer-generated images, icons, and graphical user interfaces. This guidance reflects current USPTO practice and is effective immediately.

USPTO Patent Legal Administration Notice: Comment Period Extension

The USPTO has issued a notice to extend the public comment period for its supplemental guidance on examining design patent applications related to computer-generated electronic images. This notice provides an additional 30 days for comments, with the new deadline set for November 18, 2024.

USPTO Computer-Based Training on Restriction Practice

The USPTO has released a computer-based training module on restriction practice for its examiners. This training aims to standardize the application of restriction requirements in patent examinations.

USPTO Guidance on Examining Functional Claim Limitations

The USPTO has released video training on examining functional claim limitations in computer-implemented inventions. This training is intended to assist patent examiners in their review process.

USPTO Trademark Center Replaces TEAS for Applications

The USPTO announced that the new Trademark Center will replace the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS) for all trademark applications starting January 18, 2025. The Trademark Center, currently in beta, aims to provide a more efficient and user-friendly experience for trademark applicants and owners.

USPTO and Cade Museum Collaborate on Inventor Videos

The USPTO has partnered with the Cade Museum to release a series of educational videos exploring Thanksgiving through the lens of innovation and intellectual property. The videos aim to teach families about patents and trademarks using everyday kitchen inventions as examples.

Isoniazid Tablet Price Increase in Kansas 340B Program

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has announced a 252% price increase for isoniazid (INH) tablets within its 340B program. This notice advises healthcare providers to prioritize alternative TB treatments for latent infections to preserve INH stock for active TB cases.

Meningitis Patient Factsheet and Vaccination Advice

The MHRA has published a patient factsheet on meningitis, providing information on the condition, its causes, symptoms, and the role of vaccination. The guidance also advises on reporting vaccine side effects through the Yellow Card scheme.