How much does it cost to patent your app?

Adding up the provisional application, government filing fees, legal assistance with filing, patent search, and patent application, you can expect a patent application for a mobile app to cost between $5,000 and $20,000 or more.

How long does it take to patent an app?

Obtaining a patent is an effective way to accomplish this, but the patent process does take time. While the timeline to receive a notice of allowance varies, on average it takes between 22 to 30 months. The more technical the invention, the longer the process can take.

When should you patent a product?

Patents are not legally required before you sell your product or profit from your idea. There are many products and services sold in the United States that are not patent-protected. However, a patent is necessary if you want to prevent others from making marketing, selling, or importing your invention.

Do apps need a patent?

It depends. Getting a patent is a long, expensive process. If your app is not likely to make enough money, or if it will have a short lifespan, a patent is not needed. However, if your app has a high commercial value, you should consider a patent.

Is it worth patenting an app?

Is Amazon patented?

In 2020, Amazon Technologies was granted a total of 2,373 patents by the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. This represents a seven percent decrease of U.S. patents granted compared to the previous year.

When should I file a patent for my App?

Whatever you decide, you must file your patent application within one year of the first public disclosure or sale of your app, and to avoid complications you really should file before any public disclosure of the app.

Are apps protected by Intellectual Property Law?

Fortunately, intellectual property law – particularly patent, trademark, and copyright law – provides robust protection for apps, or at least for developers who plan ahead. Utility patents protect inventions for a term of twenty years from filing.

How can LegalZoom help you apply for a patent?

LegalZoom can help you apply for a patent. You can file a provisional application for patent on your own or have your application reviewed by a USPTO-registered patent professional. You can also have us conduct a comprehensive patent search or help you file your corresponding nonprovisional utility patent application.

What are the benefits of Design patents for app developers?

A less obvious but important benefit is the fact that registration makes your mark easy for other developers to find and avoid. Both design patents and trademarks can protect app icons and features of app interfaces, and a well-funded developer will pursue both.