What is the policy on video conference interviews in patent examination?
What is the policy on video conference interviews in patent examination?
The USPTO encourages the use of video conferencing tools for patent examination interviews. According to MPEP 713.01:
‘Video conference tools can be used to conduct interviews with applicants or their representatives.’
Video conferences offer several advantages:
- Increased flexibility in scheduling
- Reduced travel costs for applicants
- Enhanced communication through visual cues
- Ability to share screens and documents in real-time
Examiners and applicants should follow the same preparation and documentation procedures for video interviews as they would for in-person or telephone interviews.
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