Authorities in different countries have their own rules on whether or not computer programs can be patented. The gray areas have turned this matter into a debatable topic in many parts of the world. American developers who are interested in patenting their software in Europe should seek the assistance of meticulous translators who are highly experienced in patent translation services. The line between what is allowed to be patented and what is not is very blurry such that a slight mistake in the translation can make a significant difference.
Translators who execute the translations of patents must be fluent in both English and the target language. Developers that are looking to register their patents in other countries should familiarize themselves with the patent laws of the country. For example, New Zealand has decided that “a computer program is not an invention”, while the patent judges in the United States have not made up their mind over the eligibility of software for protection. Traditionally, in the United States patents have been granted for software. However, more recently American courts have taken a more strict approach to patenting software.
In general, the European Patent Office does not grant intellectual property rights to those who develop software. If the software merely solves a business problem, such as increasing efficiency to an existing operation, it does not qualify for patenting. On the other hand, if the software provides a technical solution, such as enhancing wi-fi strength, then the software can be patented. China and South Korea computer programs cannot be patented. California Center for Translation & Interpretation does not provide guidance on what software can be patented where, but it surely can translate your patents into foreign languages. Our translators are very detail-oriented, and their translations are presentable. Please feel free to speak with a representative about our patent translation services.
