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Archives: Bulletins

March 24, 2026

EU-based and filing patent applications in an EU language other than English, French, or German? Receive a €500 translation fee reimbursement under the Unitary Patent System

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.

March 17, 2026

Preliminary opinion of the Enlarged Board of Appeal on description amendments (G 1/25)

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.

March 11, 2026

Female inventorship in the UK

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.

March 9, 2026

Another referral in the wake of G1/24 – should the description be consulted when considering added subject matter?

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.

March 6, 2026

International Women’s Day 2026 – helping women to thrive in IP through the Women and IP mentoring scheme

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.

March 5, 2026

Generation vs innovation: an analysis of UK electricity generation and energy sector patent applications for 2025

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.

March 3, 2026

An update on late-filed divisional patent applications

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.

February 24, 2026

The EPO President’s comments on description amendments (case G1/25)

In G1/25, the EPO President confirms that amended claims must be matched by description amendments under Article 84 EPC, in both examination and opposition.

February 19, 2026

UK IPO fee rises for patents, trade marks and designs from 1 April 2026

UK IPO to raise patent, trade mark and design fees by 25% from 1 April 2026. Early renewals in some cases can secure current rates. Portfolio planning now essential.

February 17, 2026

An IP guide to Biosimilars

Overview of EMA-defined biosimilars, EU IP protections and limits including Bolar exemption, SPC manufacturing waiver, skinny labelling and loss of exclusivity strategies.