A patentable computer program could only be one button press away
Oliver Lam, Jeremy Smith · Journal of Intellectual Property Law & Practice · 2020
Lenovo (Singapore) PTE Ltd v Comptroller General of Patents [2020] EWHC 1706 (Pat), 9 July 2020 A computer-implemented method may be patentable where it solves a technical problem outside of a computer by overcoming the need for a physical interaction. Birss J has reversed a decision of the UK Intellectual Property Office which refused an application filed by Lenovo (Singapore) PTE Ltd on the basis that the claimed subject matter (a computer-implemented method relating to payment using multiple contactless devices) was directed solely to subject matter excluded by section 1(2) of the Patents Act 1977 (as amended) as relating to a computer program and a method for doing business as such. Lenovo appealed a decision by the UK Intellectual Property Office (BL O/754/19, available at accessed 30 September 2020) to refuse a patent application for being solely directed to a computer program and a method of...