The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has launched a new online tool to search for patents.
Named One IPO Search, it replaces the Ipsum service that has been in place since 2012.
IPO said the new tool represents a ‘generational leap’ with new features that include simple keyword searching and visual data analysis to help identify market trends without specialist knowledge.
It also has functions to download patent information and a new, more user-friendly interface.
There are plans to add further features, including one to save searches and get patent notifications, AI assisted searching, integrated trade mark and design searches, and new application programme interfaces for bulk data access.
IPO said that early testing provided positive results, with 82% of users agreeing that the new service met their needs and 86% saying they found it easy to use.
Supporting innovators
Minister for Intellectual Property Feryal Clark said: “Through One IPO Search, users will have access to all the information they need in a single, easy to use platform – modernising an outdated system which will support our innovators to do what they do best for years to come.”
Andy Bartlett, IPO deputy chief executive, said: “The launch of One IPO Search is a major milestone for our digital transformation. This new search tool is a generational leap forwards from what came before and offers the easiest and most accessible way to search for UK patents.
“As we prepare to launch the rest of our new digital patent services, I hope this gives a great first impression of what can be expected.”
The launch is part of the One IPO transformation programme to modernise the agency’s services.
