When seeking intellectual property protection for new inventions, companies are often asked to submit explanatory illustrations that accompany the patent applications. But while some applicants view this is a mere administrative hassle, IP Watchdog founder Gene Quinn recently suggested that these simple drawings could prove valuable in the long term.

The integration of social media and television may be the next frontier in consumer entertainment, and a new patent application from Comcast may go a long way toward fueling its growth.

Intellectual property experts have received a glimpse into how provisions of the America Invents Act may redefine supplemental patent examination processes following the release of proposed rule changes from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

President Obama broached the issue of intellectual property protection several times in his State of the Union address on Tuesday. But as Congress continues its debate of controversial digital piracy legislation, at least one expert is suggesting that businesses may be better served by a reorganization of the the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

With additional provisions of the America Invents Act set to debut in 2012, companies should already be preparing to adjust their intellectual property strategies accordingly.

While some critics may balk at the profits posted by pharmaceutical companies in the past few decades, biotechnology firms insist these revenues are being reinvested to create the breakthrough medicines of tomorrow. According to the Wall Street Journal, some advocates are now pushing for an extension on pharmaceutical patents to ensure these organizations can continue to prosper from their intellectual assets.

Although logo trademarking may not initially factor into the plans of young companies, prioritizing this bit of intellectual property management early can prevent unforeseen problems down the line.

In accordance with the America Invents Act, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has submitted a report to Congress discussing key considerations for small businesses hoping to secure international intellectual property protection.

In a 6-2 decision, the Supreme Court has upheld an earlier ruling that will effectively allow intellectual property protections to be applied to works that were previously classified as part of the public domain.

The advent of digital journalism has had a number of unsettling consequences for traditional media powers in recent years, including a significant reduction in revenue in several cases. But according to Atlantic columnist Peter Osnos, a new licensing framework may help reporters recoup some of the profits that many believe have been pilfered as a result of news aggregators.