Summary from the Federal Register
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is implementing the Automated Search Pilot Program to evaluate the impact of sharing the results of an automated search prior to examination of an original, noncontinuing, nonprovisional utility patent application. Conducting an automated search and sending an Automated Search Results Notice (ASRN) to the applicant will provide the applicant with an earlier communication regarding potential prior art issues in their application. To participate in this new pilot procedure, the applicant must file a petition accompanied by a petition fee. With this pilot program, the USPTO aims to ascertain the impact of sharing a pre- examination search report on prosecution by applicants, evaluate the scalability of generating ASRNs, and collect data to inform next steps. This notice is to inform applicants of the pilot program and to provide them with important details regarding the program, including how to participate.
Dates
The Automated Search Pilot Program will accept petitions to participate in the program beginning October 20, 2025, until either April 20, 2026, or the date that each Technology Center (TC) that examines utility applications is docketed at least 200 applications accepted into this program, whichever occurs first. The USPTO's plan is to accept petitions in at least 1,600 patent applications. The USPTO may extend this program to accept petitions to receive an ASRN in additional patent applications if it determines that more information is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the program.