Singapore – IPOS Launches New Initiative To Accelerate Application-To-Grant Service For Artificial Intelligence Patent Applications.

The Intellectual Property Office of Singapore ("IPOS") has launched a new Accelerated Initiative for Artificial Intelligence ("AI2"), which will accelerate the application-to-grant process for artificial intelligence ("AI") patent applications. This development complements Singapore's transformation into a digital economy. The initiative is effective for two years starting from 26 April 2019.

 

Under the AI2 initiative, AI patents can be granted as quickly as six months, provided the following are met:

 

(a) The application is directed to an AI invention;

(b) The application must be first filed in Singapore;

(c) Request for Grant of Patent and Request for Search and Examination Report forms must be filed on the same day;

(d) The application must contain 20 or fewer claims;

(e) The applicant must respond within two weeks from the date of receipt of a formalities examination adverse report;

(f) The applicant must respond within two months from the date of receipt of a written opinion; and

(g) A supporting document tagged as Fast Track document stating that the application is directed to an AI invention must be furnished during the submission of the Request for Search and Examination Report form; and

(h) Other criteria, which can be found in Patents Circular No. 2/2019 here. Comment

 

This is a welcome development in light of the increasing role that AI plays in Singapore's digital economy, where AI solutions are used across a wide range of sectors including manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. From the standpoint of innovators, this initiative is expected to enable innovators to bring their AI-related products and services faster to the market.

 

Similar to the FinTech Fast Track Initiative, no additional fee is required to participate in AI2. As time-to-market is crucial in the AI field, enterprises which engage in AI innovations should consider utilising this initiative to secure patent protection as quickly as possible and to obtain a headstart in deploying their technology to the market.