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Strengthening patent quality: new tool for public input and accelerated examination
Release Time：
2026-01-06
From December 2025, a new online form makes it easier for third parties to file observations on any published patent application. Accelerated handling of applications under PACE will be reserved for examination.
The EPO is introducing new measures to support users and strengthen the patent system. A new online tool makes it easier for the public to submit observations on pending applications and patents under opposition. The EPO is also refining its acceleration procedures, by focusing its fast-track service exclusively on the examination stage, where time savings are greatest. With these measures, the EPO remains committed to increasing accessibility, transparency and quality, in line with its Strategic Plan 2028.
From 15 December, third parties can use a new online tool — accessible via MyEPO, other online services and the EPO website — to submit observations on European patent applications and on patents in opposition. Observations may include supporting evidence and can be filed anonymously; non-anonymous submissions, however, can help accelerate examination.
All submissions are assessed by the examining or opposition divisions and added to the public file in the European Patent Register. With this tool, the EPO is expanding opportunities for public input, recognising that such contributions play an important role in maintaining high patent quality.
As of 1 February 2026, the EPO will limit its Programme for Accelerated Prosecution of European Patent Applications (PACE) exclusively to the examination stage. This change ensures that the EPO’s expertise and efforts are focused on the stage where they can make the biggest difference to overall processing time. With all EPO searches now completed within six months or less, acceleration at this stage is no longer necessary. The Office has also streamlined the handling of user enquiries to strengthen overall support.
Accelerated examination under the PACE programme is one of the options available to applicants wishing to speed up the processing of a European patent application. Once a PACE request is filed, the examining division aims to issue its next communication within three months of the applicant’s latest procedural action.
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