Superfast patent

ThomasNet reports that the USPTO has granted its first patent under the expedited review process, whereby the application in processed in 6 months, rather than the usual 24. Although this patent was granted in 6 months, the stated duration of the new process is 12 months. In order to qualify, applicants must provide more detailed information than usual to the USPTO.

The IPKat watches with interest at a time when Andrew Gowers has recommended that the UK Patent Office offer expedited services.