China has updated its rules for design patents. This move focuses on Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs).
The country’s Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) issued the new guidelines.
What Is New?
The new rules are very specific. They aim to improve the quality of GUI patent applications.
- Product is Key: A GUI must be shown on a physical product. Examples are a phone or a car screen.
- Icons are Not Enough: A simple icon alone cannot get a patent. It must be part of an interactive product.
- Interaction is a Must: The design must involve human interaction. It must do something when a user clicks or swipes.
- Exclusions: Wallpaper, boot screens, and game interfaces are generally not protectable. They are not considered interactive.
- Partial Protection: You can protect only a part of a GUI. But that part must be a complete design unit.
Why Does This Matter for India?
Indian tech and software companies often sell to China. They file patents there.
These stricter rules mean Indian firms must change their strategy. Patent applications must be very precise. They need to clearly link the GUI to a product’s function.
This change highlights the growing importance of design IP in global tech. Indian companies must update their filings quickly. They need to meet the high new standards set by China.
