Uncategorized

Singapore Bag Brand Aupen, Founder Face POFMA Orders Over False Claims on IPOS

by

The Ministry of Communications and Information has issued correction directions under the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (POFMA) against handbag label Aupen and its founder Nicholas Tan. The move follows false statements about the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) in relation to an ongoing trademark dispute.

Allegations Against IPOS

Aupen and Tan had posted on social media that IPOS advised the brand to “back down” in its trademark application. They also claimed that Singapore’s trademark laws favour foreign companies. In some posts, Tan suggested that Aupen had little chance of winning against American retailer Target, which objected to the Aupen trademark due to similarities with its lingerie brand Auden.

These statements spread widely on Instagram, prompting concerns that they could mislead the public and erode trust in Singapore’s intellectual property framework.

IPOS Clarifies Its Role

In a public statement, IPOS rejected the allegations. The agency stressed that it does not advise companies to abandon trademarks or predict outcomes of disputes. It clarified that its role is limited to administering the application process and explaining procedural options.

IPOS also stated that Singapore’s trademark system treats local and foreign businesses equally, with decisions based solely on legal provisions. The office emphasised that Aupen’s Singapore trademark for “AUPEN” remains valid, regardless of the U.S. dispute.

POFMA Orders Issued

The government determined that the posts by Aupen and Tan contained falsehoods of public interest. As a result, both parties received POFMA correction directions. They must now publish notices linking to the government’s clarification so that readers are not misled.

POFMA empowers authorities to act against online falsehoods that may harm public confidence or affect social trust. In this case, officials said inaccurate claims about IPOS risked damaging Singapore’s reputation as a fair hub for intellectual property protection.

Broader Trademark Dispute

The controversy began when Target raised objections in the United States against Aupen’s trademark filings. Target argued that “Aupen” is confusingly similar to its lingerie line “Auden.”

While the U.S. process is ongoing, Aupen has scaled back operations, removed some products from its website, and reduced staff. However, in Singapore, the brand continues to hold valid registration for its name.

Implications for Businesses

The case highlights the importance of accurate communication during legal disputes. False or misleading statements about public agencies can trigger POFMA action. For startups and small businesses, the episode also underscores the need to seek professional legal advice when handling trademark opposition or international brand protection.

Observers say the outcome of Aupen’s U.S. challenge will determine how it expands abroad, but in Singapore its registration remains unaffected.

Samsung Patent Reveals Plans to Store S Pen in Foldable Hinge

by
samsung
Samsung has filed a new patent that shows an innovative way to store the S Pen inside the hinge of a future foldable smartphone. The concept could solve a key challenge the company faces in integrating stylus support into its Z Fold series.

Hinge-Based Stylus Housing

The patent details a hinge mechanism that includes a slot to securely house the S Pen. The stylus would sit within the central fold of the device, possibly allowing it to be stored and charged discreetly.

According to the filing, the design aims to balance convenience and durability. The hinge not only supports the device’s foldable action but also protects the S Pen from external damage when not in use.

This idea marks a shift from Samsung’s previous designs, where the S Pen was either not included or had to be carried separately.

Z Fold 7 Dropped S Pen Support

At its July 2025 Galaxy Unpacked event, Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 7. While the device introduced a slimmer, lighter profile, it dropped S Pen support altogether.

Samsung cited design limitations for the decision. The company said the new ultra-thin build couldn’t accommodate the necessary digitizer layer or a stylus slot.

“We’re prioritizing design and portability,” said Samsung Mobile President TM Roh during the event.

Could the S Pen Return?

Despite the Fold 7’s omission, Samsung executives have hinted that S Pen support may return in future models.

A spokesperson stated that the company is “re-evaluating S Pen inclusion” for upcoming devices and is working on slimmer stylus technology.

This new patent suggests one direction that effort could take. By integrating the S Pen into the hinge, Samsung may bypass the need to thicken the display or chassis.

Competitive Pressure Rising

Samsung faces growing competition in the foldable space. Brands like Honor, Huawei, and Motorola have launched foldables with sleeker designs and new features.

Some of these models include stylus support, increasing pressure on Samsung to deliver both design and functionality.

Meanwhile, rumors continue to circulate about a tri-fold Galaxy device that might debut in 2026. That form factor could provide extra internal space for components like the S Pen.

What’s Next?

The hinge-based S Pen slot is still a concept on paper. It may never make it to production. However, the patent underscores Samsung’s continued interest in enhancing its foldables with stylus features.

Consumers and tech watchers will be looking to the Galaxy Z Fold 8, expected in mid-2026, for any signs of the S Pen’s return.

Until then, Samsung’s foldable strategy appears to favor thinness and portability—though stylus fans are still holding out hope.

India Plans Major Overhaul of Intellectual Property Laws

by

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has signalled a sweeping reform of India’s intellectual property (IP) framework. The government aims to simplify laws, speed up processes, and create new avenues for commercial use of registered rights.

Goyal said the government is open to introducing new laws and making amendments where needed. He added that officials will study how trademarks can be better leveraged for revenue and economic growth.

The minister highlighted that India’s IP ecosystem has made significant progress in recent years. Patent grants have risen sharply. Trademark filings have also surged, making India the sixth-largest filer worldwide. Yet, Goyal acknowledged that trademark registration timelines remain long and need to be reduced.

The reforms come after the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023 took effect on August 1, 2024. The law decriminalised several minor IP offences and replaced prison terms with monetary penalties. It also introduced a 10% automatic increase in fines every three years.

To boost efficiency, the government recently launched AI- and machine-learning-based tools for trademark searches. The new IP Saarthi chatbot offers guidance in local languages, making the process more accessible to entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Goyal stressed that technology will play a central role in modernising IP administration. Faster examinations, digital tools, and better enforcement mechanisms will help India attract innovation and investment.

He also pointed to the potential of monetising trademarks. While he did not give details, experts say this could involve licensing, brand valuation, and broader commercial use of registered marks.

The push to ease compliance is part of the government’s broader plan to cut outdated rules. According to Goyal, many provisions are redundant and create unnecessary burdens for businesses.

India’s reforms aim to balance protection of rights with ease of doing business. If successful, they could position the country as a global leader in IP administration and innovation-driven growth.

Torrent Pharma Set to Launch Generic Semaglutide in India After 2026 Patent Expiry

by

Torrent Pharmaceuticals is preparing to launch both oral and injectable forms of semaglutide in India after Novo Nordisk’s patent expires in March 2026. The move positions Torrent as a leading player in the upcoming GLP-1 generics market.

✔️ Phase III Trials Approved

Torrent secured regulatory approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to begin Phase III clinical trials for semaglutide tablets (3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg) in April 2025. The trials are a crucial step toward gaining marketing authorization after the patent expiry.

📄 Torrent gets CDSCO nod for semaglutide Phase III trial – Medical Dialogues

🧬 Patent Expiry Sparks Race Among Generics

Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide patent is set to expire in India by March 2026. This has opened doors for Indian pharma companies to enter the diabetes and obesity drug segment, currently dominated by Ozempic and Wegovy.

🌐 Semaglutide Patent Information – DrugPatentWatch

🏭 Government Support via PLI Scheme

To boost local manufacturing, the Indian government plans to introduce a production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme starting in 2026. The initiative aims to encourage domestic firms to produce GLP-1 class drugs, including semaglutide.

📊 India plans incentives for GLP-1 drug makers – Reuters

⚖️ Legal Hurdles for Early Launches

Despite growing interest, companies like Dr. Reddy’s and OneSource Specialty Pharma face legal barriers. Novo Nordisk has filed patent infringement suits in Indian courts to block early entry. The Delhi High Court has restricted domestic sales of semaglutide by these firms pending further hearings.

⚖️ Delhi High Court action on semaglutide generics – LawyersArc

🏁 Competition Heats Up

Apart from Torrent, major Indian pharma companies including Sun Pharma, Cipla, Zydus Lifesciences, Aurobindo Pharma, Natco, Lupin, and Biocon are actively exploring opportunities in the GLP-1 space.

  • Dr. Reddy’s aims to launch semaglutide in 87 countries by 2026.
  • Biocon targets approvals in India and Canada by late 2026.

📈 Dr. Reddy’s global semaglutide launch – Reuters

🌎 Biocon eyes 2026 launch of semaglutide generics – Reuters

📦 Delivery Devices in Demand

Companies producing injection pens and delivery devices, such as Shaily Engineering Plastics, are scaling operations to meet growing demand for semaglutide delivery systems.

🧩 GLP-1 device makers gear up for demand – Economic Times

📌 Key Highlights

  • Patent expiry in March 2026 opens Indian market for semaglutide generics.
  • Torrent’s Phase III trials approved for oral formulations.
  • PLI incentives to support local GLP-1 production.
  • Legal battles delay some competitors from launching early.
  • India’s pharma giants eyeing a share of the $150 billion global GLP-1 market.

India–UK FTA May Threaten Access to Affordable Medicines, Warn Civil Groups

by

The proposed India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) has sparked major concerns among civil society groups, especially regarding its impact on access to affordable medicines. Leaked drafts suggest the deal may include TRIPS-plus intellectual property (IP) clauses, which could extend patent monopolies, delay generic drug production, and ultimately raise medicine prices for millions.

Leaked IP Provisions Raise Red Flags

Health organisations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and the Trade Justice Movement (TJM) have criticised the draft IP chapter of the FTA. These provisions reportedly go beyond the World Trade Organization’s TRIPS (Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights) agreement, which currently governs global IP standards.

Key problematic provisions include:

  • Evergreening of patents: This tactic allows pharmaceutical companies to make minor changes to existing drugs and renew their patents, thereby blocking generic competition.
  • Patent term extensions: Companies may gain longer exclusive rights beyond the standard 20-year patent term.
  • Data exclusivity: This prevents generic manufacturers from using clinical trial data to gain regulatory approval, even after patents expire.
  • Ban on pre-grant opposition: The FTA may restrict Indian legal provisions that allow public and civil groups to challenge weak or frivolous patent applications before approval.
  • IP enforcement measures: These could empower customs authorities to block exports of Indian generics, even when legal in the destination country.

Read more about TRIPS-plus concerns here.

India’s Role as Global Generic Drug Supplier

India is often called the “pharmacy of the Global South”, supplying affordable generics for diseases like HIV, tuberculosis, cancer, and malaria. Millions across low- and middle-income countries depend on Indian-manufactured generics for survival.

According to MSF, any disruption to India’s generic drug industry could have serious public health consequences worldwide.

In addition, India supplies around 25% of the UK’s NHS medicines. A weakened Indian pharma sector could also raise drug costs in the UK.

More on India’s generic drug exports

FTA Offers Economic Gains, But at What Cost?

The India–UK FTA aims to strengthen bilateral trade. It promises tariff-free access for Indian exports and could boost sectors like pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and textiles. UK exports, including medical devices and healthcare technology, are also set to benefit from reduced import duties in India.

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) and PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) have expressed optimism about the deal’s economic benefits. However, they remain cautious about its potential implications for public health and medicine affordability.

View economic implications here

Public Health at Risk

Health experts warn that introducing TRIPS-plus standards could delay access to life-saving medicines, especially for diseases like tuberculosis and HIV, where timely treatment is crucial.

Generic versions of key drugs like delamanid and bedaquiline could be delayed, making them unaffordable for many patients. India’s current patent laws, especially Section 3(d) of the Indian Patents Act, have helped prevent evergreening and encourage generic competition.

“The proposed IP provisions will impact not just India but also people across the world who rely on Indian generics,” said Leena Menghaney of MSF’s Access Campaign.

Ongoing Advocacy

Multiple campaigns have urged India and the UK to remove harmful IP provisions from the FTA. Activists argue that trade agreements should not undermine public health for corporate profits.

The UK Parliament has also raised concerns. Lawmakers like Nick Thomas-Symonds have warned that such provisions could increase the NHS’s drug bill while harming patients globally.

Read The Guardian’s editorial on this issue

Final Word

While the India–UK FTA has the potential to deepen trade and boost exports, public health must not be sacrificed for profit. Stakeholders continue to call for transparency in negotiations and protection of India’s legal tools that ensure access to affordable medicine.

Disclaimer:
This article is a factual, independently written report based on publicly available sources and does not represent the views of any government or organization. For more, see The Federal’s original coverage.

Delhi High Court Reviews Mohak Mangal’s Plea to Transfer ANI’s Copyright Suit to IP Division Under Commercial Courts Act

by

SEO Title:
Delhi High Court Reviews Mohak Mangal’s Plea to Transfer ANI’s Copyright Suit to IP Division Under Commercial Courts Act

The Delhi High Court has taken up a petition filed by popular YouTuber Mohak Mangal, seeking the transfer of a copyright and trademark infringement suit filed by news agency ANI from the Patiala House District Court to the High Court’s Intellectual Property (IP) Division.

Justice Anup Jairam Bhambhani heard the matter on July 18, 2025, and raised critical questions about the jurisdiction of a single-judge bench under Section 15(5) of the Commercial Courts Act, 2015.

> “Can I even hear this petition? Shouldn’t this go to the Division Bench (DB)?” the judge remarked.

Background of the Dispute

ANI filed a suit in the Patiala House Court, accusing Mangal of copyright and trademark violations through content on his YouTube channel.
Mangal’s lawyer, Advocate Nakul Dewan, argued that since 6 out of the 10 videos cited in the ANI case are already under scrutiny in the defamation matter pending before the IP Division, it would be efficient and consistent to consolidate both cases.

ANI Opposes Transfer Plea

Siddhant Kumar, representing ANI, opposed the plea. He contended that the causes of action differ—with the Patiala House matter addressing IP rights and the High Court case focusing on defamation. Therefore, Kumar maintained, the Commercial Appellate Division alone has the power to transfer suits between courts.

Court’s Observation and Next Steps

Justice Bhambhani did not dismiss the petition but instead raised serious questions about legal maintainability. The court directed the petitioner to produce case laws and documentation supporting the claim that a single-judge bench can entertain such a transfer application.

The judge noted:

> “You’re asking me to exercise a jurisdiction that may not belong to this bench.”

The matter is now listed for further hearing on July 25, 2025, before a coordinated IP Division bench, depending on the Chief Justice’s directions.

For court updates, visit the Delhi High Court website

Implications of the Case

This case brings attention to the procedural complexities of India’s IP litigation system, particularly when the same content forms the basis of multiple legal disputes. If the court allows the transfer, it may streamline litigation and reduce the risk of conflicting judgments.

It could also set a judicial precedent on how courts manage parallel legal issues involving online content creators and media organizations.

Disclaimer:

This news article is a journalistic rephrasing based on publicly available legal information and reports. It does not offer legal advice. For official legal documentation or advice, consult a qualified legal professional or access official court websites.

Macsen Labs Achieves Major Breakthrough in Sodium-Ion Battery Technology

by

In a significant development in the field of energy storage, Macsen Labs has announced a key innovation in sodium-ion battery chemistry. The company has successfully synthesized a high-performance, air-stable form of Prussian White, a sodium-rich material used as a cathode in sodium-ion batteries. This milestone not only brings India closer to energy self-reliance but also strengthens the global push for sustainable battery alternatives.

What is the Breakthrough?

Macsen’s innovation lies in producing Prussian White, known for its high sodium content and electrochemical performance comparable to Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP). This new material is non-toxic, thermally stable, and offers faster charge-discharge cycles, making it an ideal candidate for grid energy storage, electric vehicles, and portable electronics.

For reference, Prussian White is a widely researched material in sodium-ion battery systems for its cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness.


Patent Filed and Pilot Scale Ready

Macsen Labs has filed a provisional patent for its novel cathode chemistry based on this form of Prussian White. The company is now preparing to scale the innovation beyond the lab. According to their announcement, a dedicated battery research lab has been set up to develop, test, and manufacture sodium-ion cells at pilot scale.

The development positions Macsen as one of the first Indian companies to push forward in sodium-ion battery manufacturing. For more on their initiatives, visit Macsen’s official site.

Why Sodium-Ion Matters

Lithium-ion batteries dominate the energy market today, but sodium-ion batteries are emerging as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative. Sodium is more abundant than lithium, which reduces dependency on expensive and geopolitically sensitive lithium supply chains.

No cobalt or nickel needed.

Uses abundant raw materials.

Safer due to lower risk of thermal runaway.

Suitable for stationary storage and EVs.


For more insight, check this overview of sodium-ion battery technology.

Global and Indian Industry Trends

Macsen’s announcement puts India on the global map of this technology shift.

As per industry forecasts, the sodium-ion battery market is expected to witness strong growth in the next 5–7 years, especially in applications like renewable energy storage, solar grids, and two-wheel EVs.

What’s Next for Macsen?

Macsen Labs has shared that they are open to collaborations with academic institutions and industry partners. Their next steps include:

Full patent filing and validation.

Scaling to commercial-grade production.

Explore their battery materials R&D portfolio for technical insights.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on publicly available information and press releases. For further technical details, please refer to Macsen Labs’ official website.

Nokia Moves Delhi High Court Over Rejection of 5G Network Slicing Patent by Indian Patent Office

by

Nokia Technologies has filed a legal challenge in the Delhi High Court after the Indian Patent Office (IPO) declined to grant its patent application related to 5G network slicing technology. The court’s decision could have far-reaching effects on how India treats software-based inventions in the telecom sector.

Understanding Network Slicing

Network slicing is an advanced feature of 5G infrastructure that creates isolated virtual networks within a single physical system. Each slice can be tailored to serve a specific purpose—such as telemedicine, online gaming, or smart factories. Nokia’s patent focused on improving device registration through third-party authentication, enhancing security and speed for network access.

Why the Patent Was Rejected

On January 8, 2025, the IPO rejected the application on several grounds:

The invention was considered obvious, referencing existing 3GPP standards.

It was viewed as a software-only innovation, making it ineligible under Section 3(k) of the Indian Patents Act.

The claims were poorly structured and lacked clarity, with improper dependencies and missed procedural updates.

Nokia’s Legal Argument

In its writ petition, Nokia defended its invention as novel and innovative. The company emphasized that the same patent has been approved in several major markets, including the United States, Japan, and South Korea. Nokia maintained that its technology supports mission-critical services, such as connected ambulances, real-time gaming, and autonomous transport.

High Court’s Action

The Delhi High Court has taken note of the petition and issued a notice to the IPO. The patent office has six weeks to respond. Nokia may file a rejoinder thereafter. The case is scheduled for the next hearing in November 2025.

Broader Implications

This case could set a major precedent for patent protection in India, particularly for software-integrated technologies. If the court rules in Nokia’s favor, it may lead to a more inclusive interpretation of what qualifies as patentable subject matter.

Tech firms such as Samsung, Ericsson, Qualcomm, and Huawei are closely observing the developments. The judgment may influence how global companies file for patents in India and invest in research and innovation.

Patent Law Challenges in India

India’s patent law, especially Section 3(k), restricts patents on software and algorithms unless they produce a technical effect or hardware improvement. Legal experts believe this case could clarify how future software-based telecom inventions are evaluated by the IPO.

Conclusion

Nokia’s legal challenge may prove to be a turning point in India’s approach to next-generation patent rights. With global attention focused on this case, the final verdict will impact not just Nokia but the broader telecom and digital innovation ecosystem.

NIFT Bengaluru Student Creates Eco-Friendly Wristwatch Inspired by Karnataka’s Channapatna Craft

by

Prithwiraj, originally from Singur near Kolkata, grew up surrounded by stories of art and culture thanks to his father, a Bengali literature professor and folk researcher. This early exposure inspired him to explore traditional Indian crafts. For his final-year project, he chose to study the **Channapatna craft**, Karnataka’s age-old wooden toy-making tradition, known for its distinctive lacquered wooden products. His innovation recently earned him an international design patent, marking a significant achievement in eco-conscious fashion design.

Over several weeks, Prithwiraj worked closely with Channapatna artisans. He learned their techniques, materials, and the cultural significance of their craft. Drawing from this experience, he designed the watch’s dial using lacquered wood colored with natural dyes sourced from the region, including the famous red color extracted from local soil. This authentic touch preserves the cultural legacy while giving the watch a warm, traditional appeal.

The watch case is crafted from recycled aluminum, sourced from discarded automobile engine parts and machinery. This sustainable choice reduces industrial waste and lowers the environmental footprint of the product. Olavu’s modular design allows users to swap wooden dials easily. This feature promotes personalization and prolongs the product’s life, contrasting with the disposable nature of many fashion accessories today.

Functionality is also a priority. The watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters (10-bar rating), thanks to the lacquer finish that prevents the wood from swelling or warping due to moisture. The precision of the watch is maintained with an accuracy of up to 0.5 mm, combining modern engineering with traditional craftsmanship.

The name “Olavu” means “love and affection” in Kannada, reflecting the emotional connection Prithwiraj wants to foster between the wearer and the watch. The international design patent recognizes the innovation and cultural significance of this creation, emphasizing how heritage and sustainability can coexist in modern design.

Prithwiraj’s work highlights the potential of young Indian designers to reshape fashion by integrating indigenous knowledge with contemporary needs. Olavu stands as a symbol of eco-friendly innovation rooted in tradition.

For more information about **Channapatna craft**, visit the [Karnataka Handicrafts Development Corporation](https://khandicrafts.karnataka.gov.in/).

To explore more on sustainable fashion and accessories, check out the [Sustainable Fashion Guide](https://www.sustainablefashionguide.org/).

Rajasthan High Court: Registrar Cannot Remove Trademark Without Serving Notice

by

In a key ruling, the Rajasthan High Court has declared that a registered trademark cannot be removed from the Trade Marks Register without issuing a mandatory notice under Section 25(3) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.

The Court criticized the Registrar of Trademarks for removing a mark without serving Notice O-3, as required under Rule 58 of the Trade Marks Rules, 2017.

⚖️ What the Court Said

Justice Uma Shanker Vyas held that:

  • Issuing notice is mandatory before deleting any trademark.
  • Even if a renewal application is not filed, removal cannot happen without prior warning.
  • The Registrar’s duty is to comply with Section 25(3) and Rule 58.

The Court concluded that failure to issue Notice O-3 violates the rights of trademark holders. It set aside the removal and ordered the restoration of the trademark.

📌 Case Background

The petitioner held a valid trademark that had expired over seven years ago. However, they did not receive any notice from the Registry before the mark was deleted.

The Registrar acted unilaterally, without following the legal process. This prompted the petitioner to challenge the move in court.

📘 Legal Position: Section 25 and Rule 58

  • Section 25(1): Trademark registration is valid for ten years.
  • Section 25(3): Registrar must serve notice before removal if renewal is not filed.
  • Rule 58: Requires the issuance of Notice O-3 at least one month before expiry.

If the Registrar skips this process, the removal becomes illegal. This ruling follows the precedent set by the Bombay High Court in a similar case.

⚠️ Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only. It is based on official legal documents and public court records. It does not constitute legal advice. Please consult an intellectual property lawyer for case-specific guidance.