Insights

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

Debunking common myths about the UPC and UPs: some basics and not-so-basics

The UPC has been open for two years. We bust common myths and misconceptions about the Unified Patent Court and Unitary Patent system, with practical insights and updates from our experts.

Copyrightability of AI generated works

CAIP2 confirms AI-created works lack US copyright unless there's identifiable human input. Prompts alone don’t qualify - yet. UK also weighs how to protect AI-involved content.

AI and data analytics in food tech

AI is reshaping food tech—from disease detection in crops to personalised nutrition and smart packaging. Innovation is booming, and IP protection is key as patent filings rise across the sector.

International Women in Engineering Day

This International Women in Engineering Day, we share perspectives from two of our engineers on their career paths and what excites them about working in IP and engineering.

G1/24 explained: the description and figures must be considered in claim interpretation

G1/24 clarifies claim interpretation under the EPC, confirming that the description and drawings must always be consulted - an important shift in EPO practice.

G1/24: The Enlarged Board of Appeal issues its decision

In G1/24, the EPO Enlarged Board ruled that claims must always be interpreted in light of the description and drawings when assessing patentability, even if the claims appear clear on their own.

Use of the EPO’s problem-and-solution approach for assessing inventive step at the UPC

The UPC’s Court of First Instance confirms the EPO’s problem-and-solution approach as the main method for assessing inventive step, ensuring consistency and legal certainty across Europe.

Go ask Alice

In Alice Ltd v Photogram, the High Court upheld ALICE's trade mark, confirming infringement and dismissing revocation. A reminder: even modest, well-documented use can protect broad rights.

The AI Continent Action Plan – The EU’s bid to become a global leader in AI

The EU's AI Continent Action Plan aims to make Europe a global AI leader by enhancing infrastructure, expanding data access, fostering talent, and building a strong regulatory framework.

No time restriction on competence of the UPC

The UPC now has confirmed authority over pre-UPCA infringements, even during opt-out periods. This landmark decision reshapes jurisdiction expectations.

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.

Boult partners featured in WTR Global Leaders 2025

Boult partners Emma Pitcher, Catherine Wolfe and Tony Pluckrose have been recognised in WTR Global Leaders 2025.

UK’s green transition: Rising patent filings and the quest for green skilled talent

As UK green tech patents surge, a talent gap threatens progress. Boult helps innovators protect ideas, access funding, and turn sustainable vision into reality with smart IP strategies.

R&D funding and the Patent Box for green tech start-ups: Mini series part three

This part of our green tech funding series covers the UK Patent Box—a scheme offering 10% corporation tax on profits from patented IP. Learn eligibility, timing, income types, and R&D credit links.

INTA 2026 in London

INTA 2026 is coming to London. We've produced a handy guide to help you with your planning including where to stay and eat.

Offending life and human dignity?

EPO decision T1553/22 rejects a patent on human-pig chimeras, citing ethical concerns under Article 53(a) EPC due to risks to human dignity from pluripotent stem cell use.

Boult Partners are IP Stars for 2025

Boult’s partnership team has been well-represented as part of the 2025 edition of IP Stars.

Dr Michelle Pratt in conversation with Daryl Penny, Partner, European Patent Attorney, and UPC Representative at Boult.

Daryl Penny shares insights on EPO oppositions, UPC litigation, team strategy, and career advice from 23+ years in patents. A must-read for those navigating European IP law.

Boult ranked as a tier one firm for trade mark prosecution by MIP IP stars 2025.

Boult ranked as a tier one firm for trade mark prosecution by MIP IP stars 2025 and partner Rachel Conroy listed in the top 250 women in IP.

Two years down, five years to go until the end of the UPC transitional period

The UPC's 7-year transitional period (2023–2030) allows opt-outs of “classical” European patents from UPC jurisdiction. After 2030, opt-out ends, UPC gains full control unless already opted out.

Food packaging and sustainable packaging

The article explores how smart packaging is revolutionizing the food and beverage industry through sustainable materials, freshness tech, interactive features, and improved tracking and security.

Boult is Gold in the IAM Patent 1000

Boult is proud to be ranked Gold in IAM Patent 1000 2025 for Prosecution & EPO. 16 partners recognised for their expertise in patent law, including biotechnology, chemistry, and more.

CJEU decision concerning SPCs for combination products (joined cases C-119/22 and C-149/22)

The CJEU clarifies SPC Regulation Article 3, ruling on combination products and basic patent protection, aligning with the AG’s opinion but leaving interpretation of "invention" under Article 3(a) open.

News

Boult featured in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work

Once again Boult has been featured in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work.

News

Boult featured in the WIPR Leaders 2025

Five partners from Boult’s team have been featured in World Intellectual Property Review (WIPR)’s Leaders 2025.