Panjab University Granted Patent for Innovative UV-C Radiation Absorbing Coating

Panjab University (PU) has secured a patent for a groundbreaking, multifunctional surface coating capable of absorbing up to 96% of harmful Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) radiation. This innovative coating was developed by Gaurav Verma, a material nanotechnologist at the Dr. SSB University Institute of Chemical Engineering and Technology (UICET), and Anjali Sharma, a student at PU. The project represents a fusion of ancient Indian knowledge with cutting-edge nanotechnology.

Verma, who also serves as the director of sophisticated instrumentation laboratories at PU, explained that the new coating presents a significant advancement in protecting both living beings and materials from the harmful effects of high-energy UV-C radiation. “This multifunctional innovation is crucial for industries like healthcare, aerospace, automotive, and construction, where equipment and infrastructure are often exposed to UV-C rays for sterilization and disinfection purposes. Prolonged exposure to such radiation can lead to material degradation, increased maintenance costs, and health risks,” Verma said.

The novel coating is created by combining nanocurcumin, a natural antioxidant derived from turmeric, with modified clay to form a hybrid nanofiller. Verma drew inspiration from the traditional Indian haldi ceremony, which uses turmeric as a key element, and proposed using curcumin in its nanoform to create the coating. The resultant nanohybrid filler features platelet-like structures with orb-like shapes adhered to them, providing an innovative solution with enhanced protective properties.

This development not only integrates modern nanotechnology but also reflects a return to ancient Indian practices, proving that traditional wisdom can be harnessed in the advancement of modern science. The coating’s ability to absorb harmful UV-C radiation is set to have wide-reaching applications, particularly in sectors where UV-C light is extensively used, such as in hospitals for sterilization and in aerospace for material protection.

The patent marks a major milestone for PU, contributing to the growing field of nanotechnology and offering a promising solution to address global concerns about UV radiation exposure.

Kawasaki India Set to Launch Updated Z900 with Refreshed Design and Features

Kawasaki India is preparing to expand its lineup with an updated version of the popular Z900, following reports of the company filing a patent design for the new model. As anticipation builds, images of the design patent have surfaced online, offering a glimpse into the motorcycle’s updated look and some key features.

The updated Z900, which made its global debut last year, is set to arrive with a refreshed aesthetic and a few tweaks to its overall design. Early leaked images suggest that the new version will have a more aggressive appearance compared to its predecessor. One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a new twin-pod LED headlight setup, which gives the front-end a sharper, more modern look. The rear of the bike also appears to feature a redesigned taillight and revised bodywork, adding to the overall streamlined and muscular presence.

For rider comfort, the Z900 will maintain its signature slip seating arrangement and inclined riding position. Additionally, it is expected to retain its stylish exhaust system, which has been a defining feature of the bike. New alloy wheels, as hinted in the patent images, could further enhance the bike’s visual appeal, giving it a more premium and dynamic presence on the road.

Current Z900 Model Features
At present, the Z900 is available in its top-end “SE” trim in India, offering an impressive list of features aimed at enhancing both performance and comfort. Among its highlights are a Bluetooth-enabled 5-inch digital instrument console, which allows for seamless connectivity with smartphones, and an array of advanced features like traction control, ride-by-wire throttle, and multiple power modes. The bike also comes equipped with cruise control and several riding modes, offering a customizable riding experience.

Engine and Performance
The Z900 is powered by a 948cc, in-line 4-cylinder engine that delivers a maximum power output of 121 horsepower at 9,500 rpm and a torque of 97.4 Nm at 7,700 rpm. This engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and comes with a bi-directional quick-shifter, ensuring smooth and quick gear shifts. These powertrain features combine to make the Z900 a formidable contender in the naked bike segment, delivering both power and precision.

With these updates and its already impressive features, the new Z900 is expected to make a strong impact when it arrives in India. As Kawasaki prepares for the official launch, enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the arrival of this aggressive and refined motorcycle, which promises to offer an exhilarating riding experience both on and off the track.

Could Intellectual Property Retaliation Be the Game-Changer in Trade Wars?

In response to President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, many countries are considering retaliation, primarily through higher tariffs and import restrictions. While these measures may impact the U.S. economy, they also pose risks for the countries imposing them. The goal is to make the pain felt in the U.S. greater than the consequences suffered by the retaliating nation. While this strategy may hold true in many cases, countries like the European Union (EU), Canada, and other trading partners could take a more direct and potentially more damaging approach—targeting the United States’ intellectual property (IP) rights.

Intellectual property, particularly patents and copyrights, has long been a cornerstone of U.S. economic dominance. In 2024, the United States received nearly $150 billion in royalties and licensing fees alone, which makes up over 5% of total after-tax corporate profits. But these fees represent only the direct payments for IP use; they don’t account for embedded costs in products like software and technology, which are often used globally in consumer goods.

One possible retaliatory strategy involves countries announcing that they will no longer respect U.S. patents and copyrights for as long as Donald Trump continues his tariff policies. This kind of action would target U.S. companies that rely on their intellectual property rights for profit, such as tech giants like Microsoft and pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer and Merck.

The concept of not honoring foreign patents is not without precedent. During World War I, the U.S. invoked the Trading with the Enemy Act to allow the compulsory licensing of patents held by German companies. This measure allowed U.S. businesses to use these patents without permission, as long as they paid a minimal licensing fee set by the U.S. government. Countries like Canada, the EU, and others could implement a similar policy to challenge the United States’ trade practices.

The potential benefits of this type of retaliation are twofold. First, it would allow consumers in the retaliating countries to access cheaper products—such as generic drugs, which could drastically reduce the cost of life-saving medications like those used in cancer and heart disease treatments. Second, it would lower the cost of everyday goods like computers, by bypassing the licensing fees for software from companies like Microsoft.

For consumers, this could mean cheaper access to essential products and technologies, making it a win-win situation. Imagine having access to affordable generics of expensive drugs or the latest software without the added cost of licensing fees. This approach would directly benefit the people in those countries, and it would provide a powerful counterweight to the economic challenges posed by Trump’s tariffs.

Such an approach would also hit U.S. corporations where it hurts—potentially changing the landscape of global trade in ways that tariffs alone may not. If other nations got accustomed to accessing cheap drugs, software, and entertainment content, it could shift global perceptions of U.S. intellectual property practices. This shift could permanently disrupt the revenue models of many major U.S. companies that rely on high licensing fees and patent monopolies. For instance, without the constraints of patent monopolies, Americans themselves could spend far less on prescription drugs—possibly saving around $550 billion annually.

Innovation Thrives Amid Global Uncertainty: EPO Patent Index 2024 Reports Robust Activity

Despite ongoing global economic uncertainties, innovation continues to thrive as companies and inventors worldwide filed a total of 199,264 patent applications at the European Patent Office (EPO) in 2024, according to the newly released Patent Index 2024. This marks a slight dip of 0.1% compared to the previous year, which saw 199,452 applications. The stability in patent filings follows three years of substantial growth, underscoring the resilience of the innovation ecosystem.

The report highlights a 0.3% increase in patent filings from European countries, which include all 39 EPO member states. Meanwhile, filings from outside Europe showed a marginal decline of 0.4%. EPO President António Campinos emphasized that the robust patent activity amid global challenges reflects the ongoing commitment to research and development across industries, particularly in Europe.

“Despite political and economic challenges, European companies and inventors have maintained their momentum in filing patents, showcasing their technological capabilities and ongoing investments in R&D,” said Campinos. “The EPO’s data serves as a strategic roadmap for industries, policymakers, and investors. As outlined in the Draghi and Letta reports, Europe must continue to strengthen its innovation ecosystem, particularly in critical sectors such as green technologies, artificial intelligence, and semiconductors, to remain competitive on the global stage.”

Technological Leadership in Computer and Clean Energy Fields

In 2024, computer technology emerged as the leading sector for patent filings, with a total of 16,815 applications. This category, which includes artificial intelligence innovations like machine learning and pattern recognition, marked the first time it topped the patent charts. Meanwhile, the electrical machinery and clean energy sectors experienced the most significant growth, with a notable 8.9% increase in patent filings. Within this, innovations in battery technology were particularly prominent, surging by 24% as the world continues to push for advancements in sustainable energy.

Global Patent Trends: Shifts in Origins and Growth Patterns

The United States remained the leading country of origin for EPO patent applications, followed by Germany, Japan, China, and South Korea. Collectively, EPO member states accounted for 43% of total filings, while 57% came from outside Europe. South Korea showed the most notable growth, with a 4.2% increase in applications, while filings from the U.S. and Japan saw slight declines of 0.8% and 2.4%, respectively. China, on the other hand, saw a modest increase of 0.5%.

The Role of Large Corporations in Driving Innovation

Large companies continue to dominate the patenting landscape. South Korea’s Samsung emerged as the top applicant in 2024, a position it last held in 2020. The company overtook Huawei, which dropped to second place. Other major players in the top 10 include LG, Qualcomm, and RTX. Notably, the list includes companies from diverse regions: four from Europe, two from South Korea, two from the United States, and one each from China and Japan.

Supporting Small Businesses and Individual Inventors

The EPO also reported a significant contribution from smaller entities. In 2024, 22% of patent applications from Europe came from individual inventors or small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are defined as companies with fewer than 250 employees. Furthermore, 7% of the applications originated from universities and public research institutions. This highlights the appeal of the patent system to smaller innovators, a trend that has been reinforced by the EPO’s 2024 fee reductions for micro-enterprises, non-profits, and academic institutions.

Progress in Gender Diversity

Another noteworthy development is the growing inclusion of women in the innovation process. In 2024, 25% of all patent applications to the EPO from Europe listed at least one female inventor. Among major filing countries, Spain led the way with 42% female inventor participation, followed by Belgium (32%) and France (31%).

As Europe continues to navigate political and economic challenges, the Patent Index 2024 demonstrates that innovation remains a key pillar of economic resilience. The steady stream of patent filings reflects not only technological advancement but also the enduring global commitment to shaping a more sustainable and digitally advanced future.



Ericsson and Lenovo Settle Patent Licensing Dispute, Arbitration to Resolve Remaining Issues

Ericsson and Lenovo have reached a settlement to partially resolve their ongoing patent licensing dispute, stemming from a multi-year, global patent cross-license agreement between the two companies.

Under the terms of the settlement, all current lawsuits and administrative proceedings initiated by both parties across multiple jurisdictions, including those before the United States International Trade Commission (USITC), will be withdrawn, effectively ending all ongoing patent-related legal proceedings.

Financial impacts from the partial settlement are expected to be recognized starting in Q2 2025. However, the two companies have agreed to pursue arbitration to fully and finally resolve the remaining issues related to their patent licensing dispute.

Ericsson, a leading player in mobile technology and a key contributor to 3GPP and global mobile standards, holds a robust patent portfolio of over 60,000 granted patents, further bolstered by its leadership in 5G technology. The company continues to invest heavily in research and development, with annual expenditures exceeding SEK 50 billion. Ericsson is optimistic about increasing its intellectual property revenues, particularly through new 5G agreements and expansion into other licensing areas in the long term.

The settlement between Ericsson and Lenovo marks a significant step in resolving the patent dispute, providing both companies the opportunity to focus on their business activities moving forward while continuing to engage in discussions through arbitration to address remaining licensing matters.

GSK Resolves Patent Lawsuit Against Pfizer Over RSV Vaccines

Pharmaceutical giants GSK and Pfizer have reached a settlement to resolve a long-running patent dispute related to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines. The legal battle, which revolved around patent infringement claims, has now been brought to a close through an agreement between the two companies.

The lawsuit centered on allegations that Pfizer’s RSV vaccine infringed on patents held by GSK, specifically related to the technology behind the development and production of vaccines targeting the virus. RSV, a major cause of respiratory illness, has long been a focus of vaccine research, especially as both companies have worked to bring their respective RSV vaccines to market.

In a joint statement, both companies confirmed that the settlement would allow them to avoid further litigation and continue their efforts in addressing the global health threat posed by RSV. The terms of the settlement were not disclosed, but both GSK and Pfizer emphasized that the agreement would not affect their ongoing work on RSV vaccines, nor would it impact the availability of these vaccines for public health use.

The resolution of the patent dispute comes at a crucial time as RSV continues to strain healthcare systems worldwide, particularly among vulnerable populations like infants, elderly adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions. Both GSK and Pfizer are major players in the global vaccine market, with their respective RSV vaccines being part of a growing effort to combat the virus.

This settlement marks the end of a significant chapter in the intellectual property conflicts between the two pharmaceutical leaders, allowing both to focus on advancing their respective vaccine candidates in the fight against RSV

PAU Receives Patent for Innovative Technology to Preserve Freshness of Horticultural Produce

In a significant advancement for the agriculture sector, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has been granted a patent for a groundbreaking technology aimed at preserving the freshness of horticultural produce. This innovative technology, designed to extend the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, and other horticultural products, has the potential to revolutionize post-harvest management and reduce wastage in the industry.

The technology, developed by PAU’s researchers, addresses one of the major challenges faced by the horticulture industry — the rapid spoilage of fresh produce after harvesting. By utilizing novel techniques that involve a combination of natural preservatives and controlled atmospheric conditions, the technology ensures that produce remains fresh for a longer period without compromising its nutritional value or quality.

Dr. Gurmeet Singh, the lead researcher behind the project, shared that the technology works by creating a controlled environment around the produce that slows down the natural ripening and decaying processes. “Our system uses a combination of advanced packaging materials and controlled storage environments that help maintain optimal conditions for freshness. The result is a significant reduction in the loss of fruits and vegetables, which is a major issue globally,” he explained.

The patent is expected to be a game-changer for the agricultural sector, particularly in regions where post-harvest losses are high. According to industry reports, nearly 30-40% of horticultural produce is wasted due to poor storage and transportation conditions, which leads to financial losses for farmers and producers.

The new technology also has environmental benefits, as it reduces the need for chemical preservatives and excessive refrigeration, which are often energy-intensive and harmful to the environment. The eco-friendly nature of the technology could make it a preferred choice for sustainable farming practices.

PAU’s breakthrough could have a profound impact not only on local farmers but also on international markets. With the global demand for fresh produce constantly rising, particularly in urban areas, this technology can open up new avenues for farmers to supply high-quality, fresh products to consumers worldwide.

The patent is a testament to PAU’s commitment to innovation in the agricultural sector. The university plans to collaborate with both governmental and private sector partners to ensure the technology is widely adopted, with the goal of reducing food waste and improving food security for millions of people globally.

The development of this patented technology is expected to set a new standard in the preservation of fresh produce, making it a critical tool for enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of horticultural supply chains.

As this technology is rolled out on a larger scale, it promises to make a lasting impact on the agricultural industry, reducing waste, improving quality, and ensuring that fresh produce reaches consumers in the best possible condition.

Apple Granted Patent for Glass Enclosures with Multi-Sided Displays in Future Devices

Apple has a long history of patent applications focused on the development of glass-based device designs, dating back to at least 2014, particularly with concepts like an all-glass iPhone. Today, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted Apple a significant patent, which could be considered a key patent for glass enclosures in electronic devices. This patent covers a variety of devices, including the Apple Watch, iPhone, Mac, and introduces a distinctive iPhone design with displays on both sides of the device. In addition, Apple was granted three design patents today, further emphasizing their commitment to advancing this area of technology.

The granted patent applies to electronic devices such as iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches, where the enclosures are made from glass. Traditionally, glass has been used primarily as a transparent cover for the touchscreen. However, the new patent introduces a novel concept where glass forms multiple sides of the device’s enclosure.

For example, an enclosure with a rectangular shape could feature glass on the front, back, and sides. In some designs, the entire device could be made from glass, including the front, back, and all sides, creating a seamless, unified appearance. Although the enclosure could be made of multiple separate glass pieces, it would appear as if it were one continuous piece.

This innovative glass-enclosure design opens up several new possibilities for functionality. For instance, transparent glass on the back and sides of the device could allow for additional displays, which users could view and interact with. These side and back displays could be equipped with touch or force-sensing capabilities, turning them into interactive input surfaces for the user.

The patent also covers a specific design where a glass element forms part of the six-sided enclosure of the device, with varying thicknesses along the peripheral side. In the patent’s illustrations (FIGS. 26A to 26C), one display component could be used to create six distinct display regions—one for each side of the transparent enclosure. Not all sides of the device may feature a display, in which case those sections would be either inactive or omitted.

This patent represents an important advancement in Apple’s work on innovative device designs, potentially paving the way for new, interactive devices with unique user experiences.

Apple Granted Patent for Private Mode System for Smart Glasses and Vision Pro

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has officially granted Apple a patent for a system that enables users wearing future Apple smartglasses or Vision Pro (Visionware) devices to work on a MacBook, iPad, or even an iPhone in a private mode. This system ensures that the content displayed on the device screen is hidden from others, while the user can still view it clearly through their AR device.

According to Apple’s patent, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the display of the external device can only be seen by the user who is wearing a head-mounted system, such as smart glasses or Vision Pro. This feature offers privacy by allowing the user to interact with a MacBook without others seeing the screen’s content (e.g., emails, documents, or apps). For example, the figure shows a scenario where the user, wearing a head-mounted system (#450), works on a MacBook (#400) in private mode, editing a confidential document that only appears on the AR device’s display (#452).

In FIGS. 3B and 3C, the patent further describes a setup where an external device, such as an iPhone or iPad (#300), can be paired with a head-mounted system. This system allows the user to view the content on the external device through transparent displays in combination with virtual elements, like a graphical user interface (GUI), providing a seamless experience that blends physical and virtual views.

Nokia Signs Patent Licensing Deal with Amazon, Boosting Multimedia Technology Presence

Nokia Corporation (NOK) has recently finalized a patent licensing agreement with Amazon (AMZN), marking a significant collaboration between the two companies in the digital streaming space. Amazon, a giant in e-commerce and a key player in streaming, will integrate Nokia’s advanced video technologies across its streaming services and devices. This agreement is expected to positively impact Nokia’s financial performance, although specific financial details have not been disclosed.

As a leader in video and multimedia technology, Nokia has invested over 150 million euros in research and development over the past 25 years. Its comprehensive multimedia portfolio includes innovative technologies in areas such as video compression, content delivery, and content recommendation.

In 2023, Nokia filed lawsuits against Amazon for the unauthorized use of its video technologies in several regions, including India, the U.S., Germany, and the European Unified Patent Court. However, the newly signed agreement resolves these legal disputes, granting Amazon access to Nokia’s technologies to enhance its streaming services and Prime Video content offerings.

Nokia’s Growing Licensing Success

Nokia’s recent licensing momentum continues to build, with the company entering 2025 by securing a multi-year patent licensing deal with Samsung. Samsung will incorporate Nokia’s video technologies into its television products. Additionally, in 2024, Nokia signed a similar licensing agreement with HP Inc. The agreement with Amazon further emphasizes the growing demand for Nokia’s multimedia expertise across the tech industry.

The digital streaming market is projected to experience substantial growth. A report from Business Research Insight predicts an 18.66% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the sector between 2024 and 2033. As a key player in multimedia innovation, Nokia is well-positioned to shape the future of multimedia products, services, and industry standards.

Stock Performance of Nokia

Nokia’s stock has increased by 50.6% over the past year, outperforming the industry’s growth rate of 43.5%.

Zacks Rank and Investment Insights

In the broader technology sector, InterDigital (IDCC) holds a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy). InterDigital has exceeded earnings expectations by 158.41% in the past four quarters. The company is a leader in the development of advanced mobile technologies, including wireless communication solutions for 3G, 4G, and IEEE 802-based products and networks.