Emerging technologies such as quantum computing and blockchain technology are increasingly impacting IP lawyers' work across diverse practice areas, from drafting and prosecuting patents to enforcing intellectual property rights.

As a patent lawyer specializing in startups developing emerging technologies, Michael Henry is uniquely positioned to help other fellow IP professionals understand these technologies' nuances.

Michael, along with co-presenter Ozz Siddiq, chief patent counsel and chief IT counsel at Lennox International, will present “Emerging Technologies and Their Impact on Patent Prosecution" as part of the Center for American and International Law's 57th annual Conference on Intellectual Property Law at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12, in Plano, Texas.

Quantum Computing

At a time when quantum supremacy is more of an inevitability than a pipe dream, quantum computing is a hotter topic than ever in emerging technology.

Michael and Ozz will offer an overview of the industry — including the major players, latest developments, and why they're relevant — as well as a summary of state-of-the-art quantum computing resources. 

The discussion will also delve into relevant questions about patent law:

• Should patent attorneys consider the creation of commercial-grade quantum computers when drafting patent applications for other technologies?
• Should quantum computing inventions receive the same patent-eligibility analysis under 101 as “classical” computing inventions?
• Can infringement of a quantum computing claim actually be detected — or is a quantum processor just an unknowable “black box”?

They'll also give their predictions for future developments in the field and debunk some common myths about quantum computing.

Blockchain Technology

Michael and Ozz will also give an overview of the blockchain landscape.

They'll discuss how it is currently being implemented, and how some industries, like insurance and shipping, are already implementing blockchain to ensure transparent transactions for all parties involved.

There will also be discussion on blockchain's use in the legal field:

• “Smart contracts”
• Transfer of title
• IP rights

Finally, they will cover potential obstacles to filing blockchain patents, including overcoming 101 rejections.

To conclude, Michael and Ozz will talk about potential future interplay between quantum computing and blockchain technologies, as both industries mature and move toward the mainstream.

To learn more about this annual IP law conference, visit the Center for American and International Law's website.