Artificial intelligence (AI) is a branch of computer science that is thriving. The commercial applications of this technology extending into fields such as medicine, finance, transport and even advertising. Considered by many as one of the most important technologies of the future, global investment in AI is growing at an ever-increasing rate, with AI revolutionising the way we all live, work, and communicate.

A key aspect of AI which has Machine learning has also taken the world by storm in particular is machine learning. Originally a relatively obscure subfield of artificial intelligence research in the late 1950s and early 1960s, machine learning and the use of artificial neural networks have risen to prominence in modern technology with far-ranging applications from the use of predictive algorithms to analyse huge quantities of genetic data to virtual assistants performing everyday tasks in our homes.

It is clear that the growth in investment and development in these technologies is on course to boom in the near future, so investment in IP for these innovations is more important now than it has ever been.

Already, we are seeing a substantial increase in the number of patent applications we are filing involving AI and related technologies, which is supported by data released by the EPO in 2020 showing a dramatic rise in patent filings for so-called “Fourth Industrial Revolution” technology which covers AI and machine learning. Mewburn Ellis’ patent attorneys have been working at the forefront of patents for computer-implemented inventions since the beginning and we continue to ensure that we are up to date with the latest developments, both technical and legal, coming out of this rich vein of technology. In doing so, we have cemented ourselves as experts in the field are able to and continue to do push the boundaries of what is patent eligible as the world enters the Fourth Industrial Revolution.