JPO Publishes New Reports on AI‑Related and Business‑Related Invention Trends

The Japan Patent Office (JPO) published two reports outlining recent trends in patent applications relating to AI‑related inventions and business‑related inventions.

In the report entitled “Recent Trends in AI‑related Inventions,” the JPO analyzes patent applications classified as AI‑related inventions. For the purpose of this analysis, AI‑related inventions cover a broad range of inventions, including those relating to AI core technologies, as well as inventions in which AI is applied to various technical fields. The report shows that the number of AI‑related patent applications has increased steadily in recent years, while applications relating specifically to AI core technologies have shown a more moderate growth trend.

Figure 1: Trend in the number of AI‑related patent applications (source: Japan Patent Office)

In parallel, the JPO also published “Recent Trends in Business‑related Inventions,” which analyzes patent applications in which business methods are realized using information and communication technologies (ICT). According to the report, domestic patent applications for business‑related inventions have increased since the early 2010s, reflecting the growing digitalization of business activities.

Figure 2: Trend in domestic patent applications for business‑related inventions (source: Japan Patent Office)

These reports provide useful insights into recent patent filing trends and serve as helpful references for applicants and practitioners involved in AI‑related and business‑related technologies.

For details, see the JPO’s official publications:

• AI‑related inventions: https://www.jpo.go.jp/e/system/patent/gaiyo/ai/ai_shutsugan_chosa.html
• Business‑related inventions: https://www.jpo.go.jp/e/system/patent/gaiyo/recent_trends_biz_inv.html

Firm Commentary

ITOH has extensive experience in handling AI‑related patent applications and prides itself on its high level of technical expertise. In particular, the patent grant rate for AI core invention applications prosecuted by our firm is 92.2%, representing a strong track record.