Patent a mobile app

Methods and Steps to Patent a Mobile App

Mobile Applications That Can Be Patented

Patenting a mobile app may be possible in the United States. However, the patent laws in Europe—and therefore applicable in Spain—do not allow it. That said, this doesn’t mean you can’t apply some alternative strategies to a mobile app patent.  

Before defining strategies to protect or patent a mobile app, you should understand the basic parts of its structure:

Definition of the Parts of a Mobile App

Visual Environment: The visual environment or app interfaces refer to the buttons, images, and overall design. It is the part of the app that users interact with. Much of the user experience—and therefore the perceived value—depends on this design.

Management Environment: The management environment of an app is the section from which administrators can modify the app’s processes through variables, access user data, and adjust user permissions within the app, provided it aligns with the app’s intended purpose.

Programming Environment: The programming environment refers to the architecture and software structure itself. It consists of the algorithm developed using programming techniques and languages, which enables the different use cases to be displayed within the operational interfaces of the mobile application.

Possible Methods to Patent a Mobile App

One common option among large mobile app development companies, which also handle commercialization, is to patent mobile applications in parts, taking into account the real possibilities of patenting an app.

In some cases, apps stand out precisely because of the interfaces they offer to users. In this sense, it is entirely possible to register such images at the patent office, including their different versions.

However, in the mobile application sector, there are transformative visual behaviors and technical requirements that could improve or differentiate the way users interact with the device. In these specific cases, other types of patents could be considered, such as utility patents or software patents.

Although it is possible to patent an app's design, it is only advisable in certain specific cases. We can review your case and evaluate the advantages and drawbacks.

The logic of an app is not exactly the same as its programming code structure. Logic specifically refers to the use cases and functional requirements of a mobile app. Normally, these types of logic cannot be patented as a novel invention. However, there are other options to legally protect the app's processes. If the differentiating value of an app lies in its logic or operational procedures, it may be worth exploring the possibility of a process patent or registering it as a copyright.

As we explained in the section software patents, it is not possible to patent software in Europe, whereas in the United States, it is allowed, and several examples of app patents can be found.

The fundamental requirements to register an app include:

  • Demonstrate technical innovation. 
  • It must result in a technical improvement with a practical application. 
  • It is highly recommended to pair the app with a physical device that offers distinctive and superior value to its users.

IoT Mobile Applications as a Patentable Option

A very different case is that of IoT applications. An IoT application refers to mobile applications capable of communicating with electronic devices, either to collect data or to modify the behavior of these devices.

When it comes to patenting an IoT application, the possibilities are broader, as it differs from software patents and highlights, as the basis for innovation claims, the capabilities of the physical product being controlled by the app.

Frequently Asked Questions About App Patents

Patenting an app can cost between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on the protection methods chosen. Before estimating an approximate price, it’s essential to determine what exactly you want to patent and which methods are most suitable.

The best place to patent should be aligned with your marketing strategy and planned market entry.

The development of an IoT app can cost between $20,000 and $40,000, depending on the level of complexity and functional requirements controlled from the mobile environment. The estimated development time for an IoT app is approximately 4 months.

The valuation of patents can be calculated using different methods and varies significantly depending on the buyer’s objectives. To get an idea of the value of a patent, you can use our online calculator for an initial estimate.

Are You Planning to Patent an App?

At Let’s Prototype, we work with patent offices and specialized patent attorneys. We can also advise you on the best way to protect your app.

Do you want to turn your idea into a product?

The time to bring your ideas to life is now. We accompany you throughout the entire process: from idea to product.

 

 

 San Juan Ingenieros, S. L, is the owner of the domain www.letsprototype.com, and in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (EU 1679/2016), we will process your data exclusively to handle your information request. You have the right to rectify or request the deletion of your data at any time via hello@letsprototype.com.

Menu

Services

Our Parent Company

© 2024 Let´s Prototype
Privacy Policy

Industrial design and innovative product development company | Specialists in manufacturing working prototypes.