The USPTO announced the discontinuation of its Accelerated Examination program effective July 10, 2025, noting a stark decline in petitions compared to the Track One prioritized examination. This program was designed for applicants to fast-track their patent applications but fell out of favor after Track One's introduction in 2011, which requires only a fee to prioritize examination. Additionally, the USPTO has updated regulations regarding fee-free petitions based on age or health, clarifying that they should pertain to the inventor. The termination of the Climate Change Mitigation Pilot Program on January 28, 2025, further signifies a shift in USPTO priorities.
The Accelerated Examination program will end by July 10, 2025, following a significant decline in its usage compared to the more popular Track One program.
The USPTO's recent changes clarify that petitions for expedited examination based on age or health must specifically relate to the inventor, not the applicant.
Track One requires only a fee payment for prioritized examination, contrasting sharply with the rigorous documentation demands of the Accelerated Examination program.
The discontinuation of the Climate Change Mitigation Pilot Program further indicates the USPTO’s shift towards focusing on more widely utilized examination avenues.
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