Source: Westlaw Practical Law

The UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has launched a public consultation on proposed changes to patent and copyright laws to address challenges posed by artificial intelligence. The initiative seeks to ensure that intellectual property frameworks remain relevant in the era of AI-driven innovation.

The consultation focuses on two key areas: the ownership of AI-generated works and the eligibility of AI systems as inventors under patent law. Current laws do not clearly address whether AI-generated content qualifies for copyright or how ownership should be assigned. The IPO is also exploring how patent law can accommodate inventions created with significant AI input, particularly when human involvement is limited.

Stakeholders, including technology companies, legal experts, and researchers, are invited to provide feedback on how the law can balance innovation with protecting creators' and inventors' rights. The IPO aims to strike a balance between encouraging AI development and maintaining equitable IP protections.

The results of the consultation are expected to guide legislative reforms, positioning the UK as a leader in modernizing intellectual property laws for the AI age.