Microsoft has discontinued its Surface Duo smartphone line but filed a patent for a new foldable device featuring a 'spine cover plate' hinge system. This design aims to eliminate the hinge crease, reduce thickness, and enhance durability, though its practical implementation remains uncertain.
US seed patents, allowing corporations to control over 70% of corn and soybean seed sales, are stifling innovation and diverting taxpayer subsidies intended for farmers into corporate profits. The DOJ has stated these patents obstruct competition and research in agriculture.
DJI has sued Insta360 for patent infringement over its new Luna Ultra camera, alleging violations of design and utility patents. Insta360 has responded with its own lawsuits, claiming DJI's Osmo Pocket and Ronin products infringe on its gimbal and stabilization patents.
Russian Navy Academy specialists have patented an unmanned boat designed for rescuing personnel and towing small objects. The vessel can transfer life support equipment, pick up individuals from the water, and tow surface objects during rescue operations.
India remains on the US Trade Representative's priority watch list for intellectual property concerns, citing inconsistent progress and long-standing issues with its Patents Act. The report highlights worries over data protection for pharma and agri-chemical products, alongside high customs duties on IP-intensive goods. Weak enforcement of copyrights and trademarks also remain key issues.
The Supreme Court is hearing Hikma v. Amarin, a case that could reshape generic drug pricing by determining whether generic manufacturers can be held liable for patent infringement when marketing medications for unpatented uses. The dispute centers on 'skinny labeling,' a strategy that has saved Medicare nearly $15 billion between 2015-2021 by bringing cheaper generics to market years before brand-name patents expire. A ruling in favor of Amarin could increase legal risks for generic companies, potentially leading to higher drug prices and longer waits for affordable medications.
Hong Kong's eight publicly funded universities are generating record income through knowledge transfer activities including patents, licensing deals, and industry partnerships. While education exports appear logical for the land-constrained city, a tension emerges: the 'international' strategy relies heavily on mainland China postgraduate enrolments, despite the international veneer of English-delivered degrees and globally connected campuses.
Chinese carmaker Seres has patented an "in-vehicle toilet" that slides under a passenger seat, designed for long journeys or camping. The feature, which includes waste collection and odour control, aims to differentiate Seres' electric vehicles in a competitive market, though it's uncertain if it will be mass-produced.
