Welcome to the May 2025 edition of “IP Five in 5,” your concise roundup of the top five intellectual property news stories from the past month.
1. USPTO Accelerates Patent Issuance Process
Effective May 13, 2025, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has reduced the time between patent Issue Notification and Issue Date from approximately three weeks to two weeks. This change aims to allow patent holders to bring their innovations to market more swiftly.
2. INTA 2025 Annual Meeting Sets Post-Pandemic Attendance Record
The International Trademark Association (INTA) hosted its 147th Annual Meeting in San Diego from May 17 to 21, 2025, marking its largest gathering since the COVID-19 pandemic. With over 9,800 registrants from 139 jurisdictions, the event featured educational sessions, networking opportunities, and discussions on the theme “The Business of IP.” During the Opening Ceremonies, INTA CEO Etienne Sanz de Acedo announced that the 2026 Annual Meeting will be held in London, England, from May 2 to 6, 2026.
3. Confirmation Hearings for John Squires Held
Following his nomination for USPTO Director by President Trump on March 10, 2025, Squires testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee on May 21, 2025. During this hearing, he addressed key issues such as patent eligibility, the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB), and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence in the patent system.
4. President Trump Signs the ‘TAKE IT DOWN Act’ Addressing Nonconsensual Deepfakes
On May 19, 2025, President Trump signed the ‘TAKE IT DOWN Act’ into law, targeting the proliferation of nonconsensual intimate imagery, including AI-generated deepfakes. The bipartisan legislation criminalizes the distribution of such content and mandates its removal within 48 hours upon victim request. While the act aims to protect individuals’ privacy and uphold IP rights, it has sparked debate over potential implications for free speech and content moderation practices.
5. WIPO Announces Upcoming Changes to PCT Fee Structures
In May 2025, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) released updates regarding changes to the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) fee structures, effective July 1, 2025. These adjustments will affect the international filing fee and the fee per sheet over 30, with changes applicable in various currencies, including USD, AUD, and NZD, across multiple receiving offices. Additionally, search and handling fees for international applications will see modifications in several patent offices worldwide. Applicants are advised to consult the PCT Applicant’s Guide for detailed information on the new fee schedules.
As always, stay tuned for more updates in the ever-evolving world of intellectual property.
