The software sector continues to grow rapidly, with developments producing everything from low-level software systems or embedded software, to high-level application software, such as database systems, office applications and educational software.

Many developments in the sector underpin innovations in nearly all areas of technology, such as automotive, medical devices, energy and IoT, amongst others. As such, software plays a major role in research and development across most industries.

Various considerations arise in protecting computer software-based developments, particularly around whether or not the various, differing requirements of European patent law, and the law in other jurisdictions for patenting software, are fulfilled.  Other considerations include the detectability of third-party implementations, a desirability to retain knowledge of the software as a trade secret, and open-source considerations.

HGF’s specialist patent attorneys with experience in the software sector have a broad knowledge base and many clients in this fast-moving, complex field. As such, our team possesses the skills required in identifying patentable computer-implemented inventions and securing strong IP protection for software technologies.

The HGF team draws on its broad understanding of technical processes behind the software and key academic insight to provide in-house patent departments, companies, SMEs and academia involved with software technologies with world-leading IP strategies, delivering our full range of IP services.