NEWS & UPDATES
Inventor Thank You Packages
For patent attorneys, inventors make the world go around. Without their creativity, insight, skill, and ingenuity we would have to find a different way to feed ourselves. Our firm, very recently, began sending out Thank You Packages to inventors of patents we have obtained for clients.
Some More Thoughts On “AI”
Fresh from the HumanX Conference, I found AI’s rapid rise outpacing practical use. While hype persists, bold predictions—like a future run by bi-pedal robots—seem unrealistic. As AI matures, its true impact remains to be seen.
Intellectual Property Capture
Forming a comprehensive intellectual property strategy includes capturing intellectual property rights for the company
Transition of Leadership at the USPTO
A new incoming Director to be appointed at the USPTO
New USPTO Fees For Continuation Applications With Older Priority Dates
New USPTO Fees will have a chilling effect on continuations being filed in patent families with older priority dates
USPTO Backs Off On Proposed Rule Regarding Terminal Disclaimers
Earlier today, the USPTO withdrew a proposed rule that would have dramatically effected the relatively common practice of filing a “terminal disclaimer” to overcome a judicially-created rejection commonly known as “obviousness-type double patenting.
The Case Against Provisional Patent Applications
A Provisional Patent Application may ultimately cause intellectual property rights to be compromised, rather than protected.
(Some Of) The Value Of Examiner Interviews
One of the cornerstone principles that we have grown to rely upon is the use of Examiner Interviews early in the application process
Challenges to Patenting Blockchain Innovation
“Blockchain” technology will fundamentally transform human society
What do you mean, what do you mean? Artificial intelligence word soup
The rapid rise of generative AI has led to confusion around key terms like "AI," "machine learning," "agents," and "wrappers," which are often used incorrectly. This lack of precise language creates challenges in explaining AI projects to investors, clients, and even within the tech community. In this post, we discuss the importance of establishing clear, standardized terminology to improve communication and foster better understanding of AI innovations.
How a Patent Portfolio Benefits an Early-Stage Company
A strong patent portfolio can significantly boost an early-stage company's fundraising efforts by addressing investor concerns about defensibility and competitive advantage. In this blog post, we explore how securing patents not only provides legal protection but also helps streamline investor conversations, allowing founders to focus on innovation and growth. Learn why a well-managed patent portfolio is a valuable asset for startups seeking long-term success.
Berkeley SkyDeck Demo Day
Berkeley SkyDeck Demo Day is a chance for SkyDeck's current batch of startups to present to inventors. Ben Esplin will be attending the upcoming event as an advisor for the UC Berkeley SkyDeck Accelerator program.
IAM Strategy 300
We're thrilled to announce that Ben Esplin, the founder and president of Esplin & Associates, has been recognized as one of the IAM Strategy 300.
Patent Protection for Computer-Implemented Innovation
While computer-implemented innovations sometimes face fierce resistance at the USPTO, Esplin & Associates celebrates the recent grant of two software-based patents, both allowed without any rejections.