Over the last two decades, utility patent applications involving AI have seen an increase of 150%.

In the words of Kathi Vidal, “AI is going to be ubiquitous.” From healthcare to climate science, no industry will be left unaffected by it in some way or another, which is why the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), under Kathi’s leadership, has made it a top priority. 

In this episode, Kathi explains how she and her team at the USPTO are adapting to the growing influence of AI, including their approach to engaging with the public, their emphasis on training, and their commitment to principles of safety, security, reliability, and transparency (among others). We also discuss how they are advancing diversity and inclusion and how they are ensuring that the US maintains its position as a leader in the AI space. 

In this final episode of 2023, tune in for some food for thought on the evolving relationship between AI and IP! 

In This Episode:

[00:36] An overview of today’s episode.  

[01:54] The potential of AI for the innovation sector. 

[02:11] Challenges presented by AI advancement. 

[02:22] The increase in utility patent applications involving AI in the US. 

[02:43] AI-related training that is offered by the USPTO. 

[03:53] The principles that underpin all the work being done by the USPTO. 

[06:05] Determining patentability when AI is used in the inventive process. 

[08:13] Challenges of achieving harmonization.

[09:58] The mission that drives the AI and Emerging Technology Partnership initiative that was launched under Kathi’s leadership. 

[12:05] How AI is going to impact IP in the future. 

[14:12] What legislation around AI should be achieving. 

[14:56] How the USPTO uses the feedback they receive from the public regarding AI.

[15:52] Prior art search tools used by patent examiners at the USPTO. 

[17:52] How the USPTO is advancing diversity and inclusion. 

[18:56] Varying impacts of AI across different patent and trademark types. 

[20:29] The role of the USPTO in helping the US maintain leadership in the AI space. 

[21:59] Benefits of the partnerships that the USPTO has formed with international bodies.  

Resources:

Kathi Vidal Email Address

Kathi Vidal on LinkedIn

AI and Emerging Technology Partnership 

This episode is sponsored by FirstIgnite