The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has recently introduced the Semiconductor Technology Pilot Program as part of the CHIPS for America initiative. The Program has been established with the goal of promoting progress in semiconductor manufacturing through research and innovation.
Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo has expressed that the CHIPS and Science Act offers a unique opportunity to promote American innovation, safeguard national security, and maintain global economic competitiveness. The new program from the USPTO has been highlighted as a method to prioritize crucial intellectual property protections and stimulate investments in domestic semiconductor manufacturing.
The pilot program has been specifically designed to accelerate the examination of patent applications for specific semiconductor manufacturing innovations, focusing on processes and apparatuses for manufacturing semiconductor devices. Priority in examination will be given to qualified nonprovisional utility patent applications, without the need to meet the current requirements of the accelerated examination program or the prioritized examination program.
Kathi Vidal, Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO, has articulated that expediting the examination of patent applications related to semiconductor device manufacturing will enable the swift introduction of key innovations to the market. Ultimately, this will enhance the nation’s supply chain and reduce dependence on foreign semiconductor chip suppliers.
As of December 1, 2023, the USPTO will be accepting petitions to participate in the Semiconductor Technology Pilot Program. The program will be available until December 2, 2024, or until the USPTO accepts 1,000 grantable petitions, whichever is reached first.
For those interested in remaining informed about the USPTO, it is advisable to subscribe to receive email updates through the Subscription Center on the official USPTO website.
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