Newsletter
TIPO's New "Remote Patent Application Interviews" Launched March 1, 2022
TIPO's new "Remote Patent Application Interview" program, available since March 1, 2022, seeks to remedy problems with examination procedures resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and associated impediments, preventing applicants and other concerned parties from participating in face-to-face interviews at the TIPO or local service centers. Applicants and patent agents can select a remote location and, at their convenience, engage in trilateral video interviews therefrom directly with the examiner, via a video conferencing system established by TIPO. As there is no need to physically visit the TIPO or local service centers, all concerned parties can fully discuss case details in real time with the examiner, which facilitates thorough and accurate examination.
It is expected that, following implementation of the new system, remote interviews can take place with the same degree of effectiveness as those previously conducted in person. In addition, the system will further reduce the risk of infection from personal contact, and reduce the inconvenience and cost of full visitation and associated paperwork requirements.