{"id":27480,"date":"2022-09-21T10:59:51","date_gmt":"2022-09-21T10:59:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/?p=27480"},"modified":"2022-10-31T17:53:17","modified_gmt":"2022-10-31T17:53:17","slug":"how-to-patent-an-app-idea","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/how-to-patent-an-app-idea\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Patent an App Idea"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; column_structure=&#8221;3_5,2_5&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;3_5&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; module_class=&#8221;blog-left-content&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->Your original app idea is only as unique as it is legally protected.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->Don&#8217;t just take it from us. Type in any app on the app store and see the long list of related apps beneath it, many of which are only minor variations from the original concept.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->Big companies may be able to win against these copycat competitors with larger budgets and development teams. But what if you&#8217;re a smaller company with a fresh idea as your primary weapon in the competitive environment that is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile app<\/a> market?<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->A patent can be your best defense against idea scavengers and ensure that your concept remains unique to your brand.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->In this article, you\u2019ll find out what a patent is, why you should get one, and how to obtain it.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:heading --><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_62 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/how-to-patent-an-app-idea\/#What_Is_a_Patent_And_What_Kind_Do_You_Need\" title=\"What Is a Patent (And What Kind Do You Need)?\">What Is a Patent (And What Kind Do You Need)?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/how-to-patent-an-app-idea\/#Why_You_Should_Patent_Your_App_Idea\" title=\"Why You Should Patent Your App Idea\">Why You Should Patent Your App Idea<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/how-to-patent-an-app-idea\/#Some_caveats\" title=\"Some caveats\">Some caveats<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/how-to-patent-an-app-idea\/#How_To_Patent_Your_App_Idea\" title=\"How To Patent Your App Idea\">How To Patent Your App Idea<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/how-to-patent-an-app-idea\/#How_long_does_it_take_to_get_a_patent\" title=\"How long does it take to get a patent?\">How long does it take to get a patent?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/how-to-patent-an-app-idea\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/how-to-patent-an-app-idea\/#Talk_to_our_experts_now\" title=\"    Talk to our experts now  \">    Talk to our experts now  <\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/how-to-patent-an-app-idea\/#Talk_To_Our_Experts_Now\" title=\"Talk To Our Experts Now\n\t\">Talk To Our Experts Now\n\t<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_a_Patent_And_What_Kind_Do_You_Need\"><\/span>What Is a Patent (And What Kind Do You Need)?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/divi:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->A patent is a legal document and form of intellectual property that gives the owner of that idea the sole right to make, use, and sell it for 20 years from the filing date. The patent protection will only extend for an additional 20 years after the original term expires if there are continuations or extensions.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->A patent gives the inventor sole ownership and rights for some time. It is what enables inventors to profit from their inventions.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->A patent protects the &#8220;inventor&#8221; and their idea of a new invention. The patent grants the inventor exclusive rights to their invention for a certain period. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is in charge of granting patents to inventors.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->The USPTO has three types of patents:\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:list {\"ordered\":true} --><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Utility<\/strong>. A utility patent protects the way an article is used or its function.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Design<\/strong>. A design patent protects how an article looks instead of how it functions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Plant<\/strong>. A plant patent protects any new variety of plant, including seeds that produce plants with novel traits or characteristics.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><!-- \/divi:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->As an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">app creator<\/a>, you will most likely not need the plant patent. But the choice between the other two will depend on exactly what aspect of your app you want to patent.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->Utility patents are for functional items like apps or software, while design patents are for the ornamental appearance of an object\u2014such as the look and feel of an app.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:heading --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_You_Should_Patent_Your_App_Idea\"><\/span>Why You Should Patent Your App Idea<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/divi:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->When planning your app, getting a patent probably isn&#8217;t at the top of your to-do list. It may seem like overkill, an added expense, or just one more thing to do.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->But patents exist for a reason, and it\u2019s much better to protect your intellectual property up front instead of waiting until someone is already profiting off your hard work.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->There are quite a few benefits of having a patent on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile app<\/a>. The main pro is that it prevents others from capitalizing on your idea and indicates to investors that you have some level of ownership over the project.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->These are some other benefits of having a patent:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:list --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Protects your intellectual property from being stolen by competitors<\/li>\n<li>Helps establish your company as an innovator<\/li>\n<li>Provides evidence of ownership of intellectual property rights<\/li>\n<li>Can help with product development in the future<\/li>\n<li>Provides legal protection<\/li>\n<li>Helps you get financing<\/li>\n<li>Gives you an edge over competitors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/divi:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Some_caveats\"><\/span>Some caveats<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/divi:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->While there are numerous pros to having a patent, you should go into the process with your eyes open.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->Patenting your app idea can be costly and time-consuming, and you aren&#8217;t guaranteed success. So make sure to consider whether or not a patent is ultimately worth it.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->If your app largely relies on the execution of your concept, or you\u2019re confident it would be difficult to mimic, you may be able to get away with not filing for a patent. But if not, continue to the next section to learn how to patent your idea.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:heading --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_To_Patent_Your_App_Idea\"><\/span>How To Patent Your App Idea<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/divi:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->The first step is researching and discovering if your idea has already been patented. If so, you should rework your concept and return to the drawing board.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->Patentability relies on five core requirements:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:list {\"ordered\":true} --><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Patentable subject matter<\/li>\n<li>Utility<\/li>\n<li>Novelty<\/li>\n<li>Non-obviousness<\/li>\n<li>Enablement<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><!-- \/divi:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->You need to file a patent application with the USPTO to obtain a patent. A provisional application can be filed as early as one year before you intend to file your final application.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->It&#8217;s a good idea at this point to find a patent attorney. They will help you research and file the USPTO&#8217;s patent application.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->A patent application should be concise and precise, with the most relevant information in the most straightforward way possible. The following are some tips for writing a good patent application:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:list --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Include drawings where necessary<\/li>\n<li>Use diagrams where appropriate<\/li>\n<li>Include an abstract<\/li>\n<li>Be specific about what you are trying to protect<\/li>\n<li>Explain why your invention is new, helpful, and not obvious<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/divi:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->After filing your application with the USPTO, you will be required to pay an issue fee. In addition, within 12 months of filing your application, you will need to pay an examination fee which allows the USPTO examiner to review your invention.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:heading {\"level\":3} --><\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_does_it_take_to_get_a_patent\"><\/span>How long does it take to get a patent?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><!-- \/divi:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->Obtaining a patent can take anywhere from one year to five years or more, depending on how complicated your app idea is.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->There are a few ways to speed up the process, but remember that these generally include some hefty fees. They include:<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:list --><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>USPTO&#8217;s Prioritized Patent Examination Program<\/li>\n<li>Petition To Make Special<\/li>\n<li>Accelerated Examination<\/li>\n<li>Patent Prosecution Highway<\/li>\n<li>Full First Action Interview Pilot Program<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- \/divi:list --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->They each have different stipulations and cost varying amounts. Look through them to see if the price and qualifications are a good fit.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:heading --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><!-- \/divi:heading --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->Patents ensure that inventors get their dues, which also applies to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile apps<\/a>. While the process can be time-consuming and costly, a patent can give you the legitimacy and space you need to stand out from the competition.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p><!-- divi:paragraph -->If you&#8217;re looking to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">patent your mobile app<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/\">Confianz<\/a> can help! We can help you navigate the complex process to patenting success. As a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile app development agency<\/a>, we provide unmatched full-stack <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile application development services<\/a> globally to a wide range of business verticals &amp; help them enhance their market reach, growth and ROI. We develop <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/ios-application-development\">custom mobile app for iOS<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/android-application-development\">Android<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/contact-us\">Call us today<\/a> to get started!<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/divi:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;2_5&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_code _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; global_module=&#8221;2151&#8243; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;]<\/p>\n<div class=\"blog-floating-form\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<h1><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Talk_to_our_experts_now\"><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    Talk to our experts now<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \n<div class=\"wpcf7 no-js\" id=\"wpcf7-f1888-o1\" lang=\"en-US\" dir=\"ltr\">\n<div class=\"screen-reader-response\"><p role=\"status\" aria-live=\"polite\" aria-atomic=\"true\"><\/p> <ul><\/ul><\/div>\n<form action=\"\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27480#wpcf7-f1888-o1\" method=\"post\" class=\"wpcf7-form init\" aria-label=\"Contact form\" novalidate=\"novalidate\" data-status=\"init\">\n<div style=\"display: none;\">\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wpcf7\" value=\"1888\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wpcf7_version\" value=\"5.8.6\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wpcf7_locale\" value=\"en_US\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wpcf7_unit_tag\" value=\"wpcf7-f1888-o1\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wpcf7_container_post\" value=\"0\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wpcf7_posted_data_hash\" value=\"\" \/>\n<input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_wpcf7_recaptcha_response\" value=\"\" \/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"form-block\" style=\"    background: #fff;\">\n\t<h3 style=\"    background: #0C2464;\n    border-bottom: 5px solid #cecece;\n    border-radius: 5px 5px 90px 90px;\n    margin: 0 auto;\n    text-align: center;\n    padding: 20px;\n    color: #fff;    margin-bottom: 15px;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Talk_To_Our_Experts_Now\"><\/span><b>Talk To Our Experts Now<\/b>\n\t<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t<div style=\"padding:20px;\">\n\t\t<p><span class=\"wpcf7-form-control-wrap\" data-name=\"your-name\"><input size=\"40\" class=\"wpcf7-form-control wpcf7-text wpcf7-validates-as-required your-name\" aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" placeholder=\"Name\" value=\"\" type=\"text\" name=\"your-name\" \/><\/span>\n\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t<p><span class=\"wpcf7-form-control-wrap\" data-name=\"your-email\"><input size=\"40\" class=\"wpcf7-form-control wpcf7-email wpcf7-validates-as-required wpcf7-text wpcf7-validates-as-email your-email\" aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" placeholder=\"Email\" value=\"\" type=\"email\" name=\"your-email\" \/><\/span>\n\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t<p><span class=\"wpcf7-form-control-wrap\" data-name=\"your-number\"><input size=\"40\" class=\"wpcf7-form-control wpcf7-tel wpcf7-validates-as-required wpcf7-text wpcf7-validates-as-tel your-number\" aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" placeholder=\"Phone Number\" value=\"\" type=\"tel\" name=\"your-number\" \/><\/span>\n\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t<p><span class=\"wpcf7-form-control-wrap\" data-name=\"message\"><textarea cols=\"40\" rows=\"10\" class=\"wpcf7-form-control wpcf7-textarea wpcf7-validates-as-required form-message\" aria-required=\"true\" aria-invalid=\"false\" placeholder=\"Message\" name=\"message\"><\/textarea><\/span>\n\t\t<\/p>\n\t<span class=\"wpcf7-form-control-wrap recaptcha\" data-name=\"recaptcha\"><span data-sitekey=\"6LfFkQATAAAAAIYlZ_UH9UozO-OLkpAaWPWx6QtM\" class=\"wpcf7-form-control wpcf7-recaptcha g-recaptcha\"><\/span>\r\n<noscript>\r\n\t<div class=\"grecaptcha-noscript\">\r\n\t\t<iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/recaptcha\/api\/fallback?k=6LfFkQATAAAAAIYlZ_UH9UozO-OLkpAaWPWx6QtM\" frameborder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" width=\"310\" height=\"430\">\r\n\t\t<\/iframe>\r\n\t\t<textarea name=\"g-recaptcha-response\" rows=\"3\" cols=\"40\" placeholder=\"reCaptcha Response Here\">\r\n\t\t<\/textarea>\r\n\t<\/div>\r\n<\/noscript>\r\n<\/span>\n\t\t<div class=\"form-buttons\">\n\t\t\t<p><input class=\"wpcf7-form-control wpcf7-submit has-spinner\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Get a free quote\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"wpcf7-response-output\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/div>\n<p>[\/et_pb_code][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your original app idea is only as unique as it is legally protected. Don&#8217;t just take it from us. Type in any app on the app store and see the long list of related apps beneath it, many of which are only minor variations from the original concept. Big companies may be able to win [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":27492,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Your original app idea is only as unique as it is legally protected.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Don't just take it from us. Type in any app on the app store and see the long list of related apps beneath it, many of which are only minor variations from the original concept.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Big companies may be able to win against these copycat competitors with larger budgets and development teams. But what if you're a smaller company with a fresh idea as your primary weapon in the competitive environment that is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile app<\/a> market?<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A patent can be your best defense against idea scavengers and ensure that your concept remains unique to your brand.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>In this article, you\u2019ll find out what a patent is, why you should get one, and how to obtain it.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2>What Is a Patent (And What Kind Do You Need)?<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A patent is a legal document and form of intellectual property that gives the owner of that idea the sole right to make, use, and sell it for 20 years from the filing date. The patent protection will only extend for an additional 20 years after the original term expires if there are continuations or extensions.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A patent gives the inventor sole ownership and rights for some time. It is what enables inventors to profit from their inventions.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A patent protects the \"inventor\" and their idea of a new invention. The patent grants the inventor exclusive rights to their invention for a certain period. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is in charge of granting patents to inventors.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The USPTO has three types of patents:&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol><li><strong>Utility<\/strong>. A utility patent protects the way an article is used or its function.<\/li><li><strong>Design<\/strong>. A design patent protects how an article looks instead of how it functions.<\/li><li><strong>Plant<\/strong>. A plant patent protects any new variety of plant, including seeds that produce plants with novel traits or characteristics.<\/li><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">app creator<\/a>, you will most likely not need the plant patent. But the choice between the other two will depend on exactly what aspect of your app you want to patent.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Utility patents are for functional items like apps or software, while design patents are for the ornamental appearance of an object\u2014such as the look and feel of an app.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2>Why You Should Patent Your App Idea<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>When planning your app, getting a patent probably isn't at the top of your to-do list. It may seem like overkill, an added expense, or just one more thing to do.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>But patents exist for a reason, and it\u2019s much better to protect your intellectual property up front instead of waiting until someone is already profiting off your hard work.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>There are quite a few benefits of having a patent on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile app<\/a>. The main pro is that it prevents others from capitalizing on your idea and indicates to investors that you have some level of ownership over the project.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>These are some other benefits of having a patent:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><li>Protects your intellectual property from being stolen by competitors<\/li><li>Helps establish your company as an innovator<\/li><li>Provides evidence of ownership of intellectual property rights<\/li><li>Can help with product development in the future<\/li><li>Provides legal protection<\/li><li>Helps you get financing<\/li><li>Gives you an edge over competitors<\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>Some caveats<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>While there are numerous pros to having a patent, you should go into the process with your eyes open.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Patenting your app idea can be costly and time-consuming, and you aren't guaranteed success. So make sure to consider whether or not a patent is ultimately worth it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If your app largely relies on the execution of your concept, or you\u2019re confident it would be difficult to mimic, you may be able to get away with not filing for a patent. But if not, continue to the next section to learn how to patent your idea.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2>How To Patent Your App Idea<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The first step is researching and discovering if your idea has already been patented. If so, you should rework your concept and return to the drawing board.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Patentability relies on five core requirements:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true} -->\n<ol><li>Patentable subject matter<\/li><li>Utility<\/li><li>Novelty<\/li><li>Non-obviousness<\/li><li>Enablement<\/li><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You need to file a patent application with the USPTO to obtain a patent. A provisional application can be filed as early as one year before you intend to file your final application.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It's a good idea at this point to find a patent attorney. They will help you research and file the USPTO's patent application.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>A patent application should be concise and precise, with the most relevant information in the most straightforward way possible. The following are some tips for writing a good patent application:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><li>Include drawings where necessary<\/li><li>Use diagrams where appropriate<\/li><li>Include an abstract<\/li><li>Be specific about what you are trying to protect<\/li><li>Explain why your invention is new, helpful, and not obvious<\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>After filing your application with the USPTO, you will be required to pay an issue fee. In addition, within 12 months of filing your application, you will need to pay an examination fee which allows the USPTO examiner to review your invention.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>How long does it take to get a patent?<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Obtaining a patent can take anywhere from one year to five years or more, depending on how complicated your app idea is.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>There are a few ways to speed up the process, but remember that these generally include some hefty fees. They include:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul><li>USPTO's Prioritized Patent Examination Program<\/li><li>Petition To Make Special<\/li><li>Accelerated Examination<\/li><li>Patent Prosecution Highway<\/li><li>Full First Action Interview Pilot Program<\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>They each have different stipulations and cost varying amounts. Look through them to see if the price and qualifications are a good fit.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2>Conclusion<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Patents ensure that inventors get their dues, which also applies to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile apps<\/a>. While the process can be time-consuming and costly, a patent can give you the legitimacy and space you need to stand out from the competition.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you're looking to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">patent your mobile app<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/\">Confianz<\/a> can help! We can help you navigate the complex process to patenting success. As a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile app development agency<\/a>, we provide unmatched full-stack <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/mobile-app-development\">mobile application development services<\/a> globally to a wide range of business verticals &amp; help them enhance their market reach, growth and ROI. We develop <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/ios-application-development\">custom mobile app for iOS<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/android-application-development\">Android<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/contact-us\">Call us today<\/a> to get started!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","_et_gb_content_width":"1300","footnotes":""},"categories":[358],"tags":[170,82,251,399,190,398],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27480"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27480"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27480\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27537,"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27480\/revisions\/27537"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27492"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27480"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27480"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.confianzit.com\/cit-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27480"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}