Can You Patent an own App

If you’ve got a great app idea, you might be wondering if you can patent it. The answer is: maybe. patents are granted for new, useful, and non-obvious inventions, and an app could potentially meet those criteria. However, there are some important things to keep in mind before you go down the patenting route.

What is a patent?

A patent is a grant from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that gives the inventor of a new, useful, and non-obvious invention the right to exclude others from making, using, patenting, and selling that invention for a limited period of time.

What can you patent?

In order to patent something, it must first meet the criteria for patentability. That is, it must be:

-New
-Useful
-Non-obvious

In addition, it must also fall into one of the following categories:
-Processes
-Machines
-Manufactured articles
-Compositions of matter (including chemical compounds)
-Improvements to any of the above

How do you patent an idea?

You can’t patent an idea. You can only patent an invention that is a physical embodiment of that idea. For example, you could not patent the idea of a new type of computer, but you could patent a new design for a computer. To be eligible for a patent, an invention must be new, useful and not obvious to someone skilled in the relevant field.

What is the patenting process?

You may have an amazing new app idea, but how can you be sure that no one else has thought of it – or is already working on it? A patent can give you the legal protection you need to ensure that your app is unique.

The patenting process can be complex, and it’s important to understand the requirements and fees involved before you begin. In general, you will need to:

• Conduct a novelty search to make sure your idea is new
• Prepare and file a patent application with the USPTO
• Pay the required filing fees
• Respond to any office actions from the USPTO
• Wait for your patent to be granted

Once your patent is granted, you will have the exclusive right to make, use, sell, or import your invention for a period of 20 years.

How much does it cost to patent an idea?

The cost of patenting an idea varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of patent you are seeking and the country in which you plan to file. In the United States, for example, a utility patent — which covers most inventions — costs around $5,000 to $10,000 when filed by an individual. If you hire a lawyer or patent agent to help with the process, the cost will be higher.

Are there different types of patents?

There are three different types of patents that can be obtained in the United States: design, plant, and utility. Design patents are obtained for the ornamental design of an object, while plant patents are given for a new asexually-reproduced plant variety. Utility patents are the most common type of patent and are given for the invention or discovery of a new and useful process, machine, article of manufacture, or compositions of matter, or any new and useful improvement thereof.

How long does a patent last?

Patents are granted for a set period of time, generally 20 years from the date the patent application was filed. The term of a patent may be extended under certain circumstances, but not to exceed a total of 14 years from the date the patent was originally granted. After the term of a patent expires, anyone is free to make, use or sell the invention without permission from the patent owner. However, expired patents may still provide some protection in some countries.

What are the benefits of patenting an idea?

Patenting an idea can offer a number of benefits, including providing a financial return on your investment, deterring others from copying your idea, and adding value to your company. A patent can also give you the exclusive right to sell, manufacture, or import your invention in the country where you file the patent application.