So, you’ve thought of a fantastic mobile app concept and want to protect your concept with a patent. What are you required to be aware of? In the first place, you must be aware that submitting the right to a patent is a complex and often time-consuming procedure. But you can make the process easier by knowing the key aspects of the patenting process. If entrepreneurs ask me how to patent their app for mobile devices, I tell them: app idea, here’s the advice I give them:
1. Do a Patent Search or App Idea Search.
This is the first thing you need to do. In most cases, a Google search will show you that a similar app is already available. If you discover an app that has the same features and functions as yours in the App Store, the chances of obtaining an application for patents are slim. It is also recommended to search on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO.gov) website to determine whether a patent is already in place. It is recommended to search with various terms and descriptions to make sure that nothing very similar to your concept is available. If you can’t discover anything that is similar to your idea, then you’re in the right place to file a patent application. If you come across something that’s somewhat similar to your app concept, you might have to alter your concept to make it distinctive. It is possible to hire an attorney to conduct the search for you. They’re not expensive for their services. However, you could do well or better by yourself. Google, App Stores and USPTO are great sources to use when applying for patents, as the Patent Office will also look in these databases to discover the correct matching.
2. Create Design Documentation for Your App Idea
When you realize that there is there isn’t a similar app concept exists, it is time to record your idea. In essence, you must describe the concept, features and features for your app in an official document that is attached to an application for patent. The documentation for your app will clearly define what’s unique in your app. It is also recommended to develop flow charts and wire-frames for your app. Wire-frames will show how your app screen will appear in terms of flow, data and other features. You could also design diagrams of flow to explain your application’s key features and flow—your app. If you’re not able to do this by yourself, you can employ an app design or app development company to handle the job for you. You could also employ a UX/UI designer to develop more sophisticated designs documentation. This is usually in the format of PDF.
3. File for a Provisional Patent
After you’ve compiled your documents, you must submit a request for a provisional Patent that is simpler to fill out (you can file it yourself on the USPTO.gov website. It’s not necessary to hire an expensive patent attorney to file this. All you need to do is pay the fee of $65 online to complete the process. After you submit the application online, you’ll receive a one-year provisional patent. During this time, you’ll be able to transform your concept into a possibility.
4. Change the Provisional Patent to Non-provisional Patent
If, after a period of temporary patent protection, you determine that your concept is likely to succeed, you’ll be required to file a nonprovisional patent. The process can be more complex than the process of obtaining a provisional patent. However, you can get all the information you need at the USPTO website. It is possible that you will, at this point, decide to employ a patent attorney to submit your patent application for you, mainly if you have seen some results in the app in the marketplace. If you think that your application will succeed, it is advisable to engage a professional to ensure that your application is filed smoothly.
The process of applying for a patent can be lengthy and detailed, but if you adhere to the precise steps in the procedure, you’ll be able to reduce costs. This is because the USPTO has made its website accessible and straightforward to navigate. You can also reach them with any queries about the procedure.