What happens when quantum computing and patents collide?
Tracing how earlier emerging technologies have performed in the patent market could provide clues as to what will happen as quantum computing matures, according to Charles Duan, senior fellow and director of tech and innovation policy at R Street Institute, speaking on the Hudson Institute panel.
Computer and internet technologies saw a lack of expertise in examination by the patent office coupled with strong incentives for big companies to get patents to use against smaller businesses, he said, which resulted in a glut of patents.
More recently, scores of banks are applying for blockchain patents, a technology often misunderstood or overhyped. Questions persist as to whether the patent office understands the technology and its implications well enough to fairly assess granting patent applications.
Standardization has helped with patent protections and frictionless licensing systems in areas like communications protocols, Duan said. But some experts, including fellow panelist Chris Monroe, University of Maryland professor of physics and chief scientist at IonQ, contend it is too early for the industry to have standardization.
One critical part of quantum computing patent law going forward is greater expertise in examination. Patent examiners, often with little technical expertise, have limited time to review any given patent, Duan said. They need more resources, non-patent literature and opportunities to develop technical literacy.
