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ARTICLE · 02 SEPTEMBER 2026

USPTO Plans For AI Implementation

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While this blog normally writes about the issues facing the patentability of AI inventions, we want to write about a topic that is high on our radar: the USPTO’s plans for integrating AI into the examination process. While certain programs, such as the USPTO’s Artificial Intelligence Search Automated Pilot Program (ASAP!) program were previously tested, a greater question looms on the availability of examiners to use large language models (LLMs) as a tool for examination.

United StatesIntellectual Property
Sameer Gokhale
Sameer Gokhale
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While this blog normally writes about the issues facing the patentability of AI inventions, we want to write about a topic that is high on our radar: the USPTO’s plans for integrating AI into the examination process. While certain programs, such as the USPTO’s Artificial Intelligence Search Automated Pilot Program (ASAP!) program were previously tested, a greater question looms on the availability of examiners to use large language models (LLMs) as a tool for examination.

During a “USPTO Hour” information session earlier this year on April 29th, the Office provided an update on how the agency is driving artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and enabling opportunities to use AI tools to support their mission. A summary of that discussion is below and a link to the video recording can be found here.

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