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Insights

Artificial Intelligence and sustainability: Irrevocably opposed?

AI holds promise for sustainability - but also consumes vast energy. We unpack whether AI can be part of the solution, or if it poses more harm than help to our planet.

More on claim interpretation at the EPO after G 1/24

G 1/24 clarifies that while the EPO must consult the description, claims take primacy. Patentees must draft claims clearly - no reliance on interpretive help from the description.

Boult is pleased to announce that the firm has achieved a Silver Medal following our assessment by EcoVadis

Boult has earned a Silver Medal from EcoVadis, the global sustainability ratings platform - recognising our commitment to ethical, responsible and environmentally conscious business practices.

Intellectual property (IP) and photovoltaics: examining the EPO’s latest observatory report

EPO data shows sustained growth in photovoltaic patents, with China leading production. Europe’s universities and start-ups are driving innovation in PV devices, materials, and applications.

No help from Luxembourg: UPC Court of Appeal says CJEU can’t rule on interpretation of UPCA

The UPC Court of Appeal confirms its duty to interpret law in line with EU law but cannot seek CJEU rulings on the UPCA or RoP. One-month cost deadline held compatible with EU law.

Government consultation into changes to the UKIPO’s trade mark, design and tribunal services

The UKIPO's second digital transformation consultation confirms key changes to trade mark services, including axing series marks and trialling mediation for IP disputes in 2025.

UKIPO launches major consultation on UK design law reform

The UKIPO has opened consultation on reforming UK design law, proposing a single unregistered design right, tackling registration abuse and enhancing GUI and animation protection.

Dr Michelle Pratt in conversation with Dr James Short

Dr James Short shares his expertise on EPO oppositions and appeals, including cost-effective strategies, hearing preparation, and procedural insights in this in-depth conversation.

The recipe for success: how food science innovators can use IP to retain their competitive edge

From trade secrets to patents, IP plays a vital role in protecting innovation across food science—covering recipes, packaging, and manufacturing in a booming £5.8bn industry.

Will the UPC guide the EPO when it comes to description amendments?

Recent UPC decisions suggest a shift toward deleting embodiments not covered by amended claims. G 1/25 may confirm this as EPO seeks alignment. Read our analysis and what this means for drafters.

You snooze, you lose at the UPC: Court rejects new arguments presented late in the procedure

The Düsseldorf UPC rejected a late-filed argument on added matter, reaffirming its strict, front-loaded procedure and the importance of early, complete case preparation.

Claim interpretation at the EPO after the recent case law (G 1/24)

T 1846/23 shows how G 1/24 is being applied: the EPO rejects narrowing claims via the description alone. As G 1/25 is awaited, the importance of clear drafting is reinforced.

From umpires to analytics - AI innovation in tennis

From AI-powered line calls to enhanced fan experiences, tennis is embracing innovation. We explore this transformation and the patent challenges of protecting AI-driven technologies.

Launch of the Biotech and Biomanufacturing Hub

The EU’s new Biotech & Biomanufacturing Hub offers funding, R&D, scale-up tools, and IP guidance—supporting SMEs and start-ups across the biotech innovation landscape.

Dr Michelle Pratt in conversation with Jonathan Pratt and Angela McCleave

Jonathan Pratt and Angela McCleave join me to reflect on Boult’s standout year - from EQE success to ISO 27001 renewal and major awards.

To opt out or not to opt out?

Should you opt out of the Unified Patent Court? Boult explores the pros and cons, recent case law, and strategic factors for European patent holders in a changing legal landscape.

Finally: A referral to the Enlarged Board of Appeal on description amendments

The European Patent Office (EPO) has insisted upon the adaptation of the description to avoid inconsistencies with amended claims. A Board of Appeal has referred questions on the matter.

Stop the press, literally!

In a recent decision dated 18 July 2025, the Mannheim Local Division of the Unified Patent Court (UPC) has issued an injunction against Kodak in the United Kingdom.

Granini has last laugh

EUIPO upheld opposition to ‘Joker Reels’ by Granini France’s ‘JOKER +’. Decision stresses mark distinctiveness can't be dismissed solely due to broad goods descriptions.

Key takeaways from CJEU decision C-382/21 (27 February 2024)

CJEU clarifies Registered EU Designs (REUD) can claim priority from PCT apps, but must file within 6 months. Validity of priority claims from PCTs with earlier patents remains uncertain.

MORE

News

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Boult is pleased to announce that the firm has achieved a Silver Medal following our assessment by EcoVadis

Boult has earned a Silver Medal from EcoVadis, the global sustainability ratings platform - recognising our commitment to ethical, responsible and environmentally conscious business practices.

image
Sunday Times Best Places to Work – wellbeing at Boult

Boult is thrilled to be recognised in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025, especially for our strong staff wellbeing and retention culture, supported by our dedicated Wellness Team.

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Boult top tier again

Boult has been ranked Tier One by Managing Intellectual Property, IP Stars 2025 for patent prosecution. The ranking covers 875 firms across

image
Celebrating social mobility at Boult

This Social Mobility Day, Boult highlights its inclusive recruitment efforts with Rare Recruitment and The Sutton Trust—opening career paths in IP for talented individuals from all backgrounds.

News

News

image
Boult is pleased to announce that the firm has achieved a Silver Medal following our assessment by EcoVadis

Boult has earned a Silver Medal from EcoVadis, the global sustainability ratings platform - recognising our commitment to ethical, responsible and environmentally conscious business practices.

image
Sunday Times Best Places to Work – wellbeing at Boult

Boult is thrilled to be recognised in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025, especially for our strong staff wellbeing and retention culture, supported by our dedicated Wellness Team.

image
Boult top tier again

Boult has been ranked Tier One by Managing Intellectual Property, IP Stars 2025 for patent prosecution. The ranking covers 875 firms across

image
Celebrating social mobility at Boult

This Social Mobility Day, Boult highlights its inclusive recruitment efforts with Rare Recruitment and The Sutton Trust—opening career paths in IP for talented individuals from all backgrounds.

News