The 2026 Unitary Patent Guidelines introduce refinements across nearly all sections, improving procedural clarity and legal detail as confidence grows in the UPC system.
A look back at four landmark 2025 UPC decisions shaping jurisdiction, description amendments, doctrine of equivalents and inventive step as 2026 developments unfold.
Following a December 2025 decision, the EPO will increase key patent fees by 5% from 1 April 2026. Applicants should review portfolios and consider early payments to reduce costs.
The Unitary Patent system includes a €500 reimbursement for translation costs for eligible EU applicants filing in non-EPO languages, helping reduce costs despite UPC language limitations.
The Enlarged Board’s preliminary view in G 1/25 indicates description amendments are needed when claim changes create EPC non-compliance, under Article 84, in both opposition and examination.
A UKIPO report reveals gradual growth in female inventors in UK patent filings from 1997–2024. Despite progress, women remain underrepresented across sectors and inventor teams.
Minutes from T 873/24 suggest a new referral to the Enlarged Board of Appeal on whether G 1/24—requiring consultation of the description when interpreting claims—also applies to added subject matter assessments.
For International Women’s Day, Boult highlights our commitment to women in IP, supporting career growth through IP Inclusive and the new Women in IP mentoring scheme.
The National Energy System Operator 2025 review shows renewables supplying 44% of UK electricity. Yet patent filings tell a different story, with gas leading innovation despite wind topping generation.
Board of Appeal decision T 700/25 casts doubt on J 1/24’s limited path to filing divisionals after grant, reaffirming that applicants should file before the parent patent grants.
