As reported by NASDAQ, for the 29th consecutive year, IBM has been awarded the highest number of patents in the U.S., according to data released by the IFI Claims Patent Service.
Despite a 5% decline in patent awards from the previous year, IBM received 8,682 patents in 2021, clinching the top spot by a margin of 2,316 patents. Globally, IBM ranked eighth in cumulative patent holdings, with 41,937 active patent families.
IFI data reveals that the total number of U.S. patents awarded in 2021 dropped 7% from 2020, the largest decline in the past decade. Despite this overall decrease, U.S patents awarded to China-based companies have shown a rise of 10%, up from 18,792 awards in 2020 to 20,679 during 2021.
The growth of China-based companies is reflected by Huawei’s entry into the top five U.S patent recipients in 2021, rising up from the ninth spot in 2020. Huawei was awarded a total of 2,770 patents in 2021, as compared to 2,761 patents in the previous year.
Rounding out the top five spots are Samsung (SSNLF), Canon (CAJ), and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC).
In terms of global patent holdings, Samsung remains the world leader with 90,416 active patent families, amongst core research areas such as AI, data intelligence, robotics, next-generation communications and media, life care and new experiences, and security.
Authors: Jaclyn Tilak and Brittni Tee, 2021/2022 Articling Student-at-law
Authors
Expertise
Insights
-
Intellectual Property Litigation
Regulatory Updates – Impacts of Global Tariffs on Pharmaceuticals
Recent tariff measures affecting pharmaceutical products and ingredients have introduced new compliance and cost considerations for manufacturers, distributors, and importers operating in Canada and… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
US Appeals Court: Supertramp Songwriter Must "Give a Little Bit"
As reported by Reuters, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that Roger Hodgson, the former Supertramp singer and songwriter, must compensate three former band members for a share of… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
Fallout from Trade Secret Theft in Taiwan
As reported by Reuters, three former employees of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company ("TSMC") were charged with violating security law and other offences in Taiwan. The prosecutors have… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
U.S Appeals Court Sends $81 Million Award Against Boeing Flying Back In!
As reported by Reuters, the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals has reinstated an $81 million award against Boeing, in a suit brought by Zunum Aero, an aircraft startup, accusing Boeing of stealing trade… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
Carrot Puff Copycat: Copyright Infringed in Federal Court of Australia Case
As reported by Mason Hayes & Curran, the Federal Court of Australia has reportedly found the supermarket chain, Aldi, liable for copyright infringement regarding illustrations used on the… -
Intellectual Property Litigation
Carnegie Hall Takes Trademark Center Stage in Legal Battle
Carnegie Hall has reportedly commenced an action against Carnegie Diner and Café for trademark infringement.In its complaint filed with the United States District Court, Southern District of New York…