USPTO Extends Artificial Intelligence Search Pilot Program
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The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is extending the Artificial Intelligence Search Automated Pilot Program (ASAP!) until June 1, 2026, in order to obtain more information to evaluate the effectiveness of the program. The USPTO previously announced its plan to accept at least 3,200 patent applications distributed across the Technology Centers (TCs) that examine utility applications, which includes at least 400 applications per TC. The USPTO continues to accept petitions to participate in ASAP! until either June 1, 2026, or the date that each utility Technology Center (TC) is docketed at least 400 applications that have been accepted into this program, whichever occurs first.
In addition, the USPTO has waived the petition fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(f) for petitions filed under 37 CFR 1.182 in order to participate in the program. The petition fee waiver applies to any petition under 37 CFR 1.182 using Form PTO/SB/470 filed on or after March 23, 2026. Form PTO/SB/470 must be filed electronically in Patent Center on the filing date of the application.
For more information on ASAP!, see Artificial Intelligence Search Automated Pilot Program | USPTO.
