When are international patent applications published?
According to MPEP 1857, international patent applications are typically published 18 months after the priority date. However, there are exceptions: The applicant can request earlier publication. Publication may be delayed if the application is withdrawn or considered withdrawn before technical preparations for publication are completed. As stated in PCT Article 21(2)(a): Subject to the exceptions…
Read MoreWhat is a “Notice of New or Revised Publication Date” and when is it issued?
A “Notice of New or Revised Publication Date” is a document issued by the USPTO to inform applicants of significant changes to the projected publication date of their patent application. According to MPEP 1127, this notice may be mailed under the following circumstances: “A ‘Notice of New or Revised Publication Date’ may be mailed if…
Read MoreWhen are patent applications classified for publication?
According to the MPEP, patent applications are classified well in advance of their projected publication date: “At least 9 weeks prior to the projected publication date, applications are classified using programs designed to enable entry of certain data required for publication of patent applications.” This process ensures that the classification information is available for inclusion…
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