How does the USPTO treat foreign language publications as prior art?
The USPTO considers foreign language publications as potential prior art, provided they meet the criteria for public accessibility and publication date. According to MPEP 2128: “Prior art publications in a language other than English are considered as prior art as of their publication date, even though an English translation may not be available until a…
Read MoreHow are foreign language publications handled in patent examinations?
The MPEP 901.06 addresses the handling of foreign language publications in patent examinations: “Abstracts of foreign language publications are kept as separate abstract publications. These abstracts are in the English language and are arranged in chronological order.” This means that for foreign language publications, English language abstracts are used to facilitate the examiner’s search and…
Read More