What is the streamlined eligibility analysis in patent examination?

The streamlined eligibility analysis (Pathway A) is an efficient method used by patent examiners when the eligibility of a claim is self-evident, particularly when the claim clearly improves a technology or computer functionality. As stated in MPEP 2106.06:

“For purposes of efficiency in examination, examiners may use a streamlined eligibility analysis (Pathway A) when the eligibility of the claim is self-evident, e.g., because the claim clearly improves a technology or computer functionality.”

This approach allows examiners to quickly determine eligibility without conducting the full Alice/Mayo test, but the results will always be the same as if the full analysis had been performed.

To learn more:

• streamlined analysis
• patent eligibility
• patent examination
• technology improvement