USPTO Launches Automated Search Pilot Program — SLW Insights
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has announced the Automated Search Pilot Program (ASAP!), launching October 20, 2025. This initiative marks a significant step in the agency’s adoption of AI tools to improve patent examination efficiency and transparency.
Under the pilot, the USPTO’s new AI system will conduct an automated prior-art search before substantive examination begins. Participating applicants will receive an Automated Search Results Notice (ASRN) identifying up to ten potentially relevant prior-art references based on the application’s claims, abstract, and specification.
Key Details
- Timeline: The pilot runs from October 20, 2025 through April 20, 2026 (or until the USPTO reaches its participation limit of roughly 1,600 applications).
- Eligibility: Original, noncontinuing, nonprovisional utility applications filed under 35 U.S.C. § 111(a). Continuations, divisionals, CIPs, PCT entries, and design or plant applications are not eligible.
- Petition Required: Applicants must submit Form PTO/SB/470 (“Petition to Participate in the Automated Search Pilot Program”) and pay the corresponding fee at the time of filing.
- Format Requirements: Filings must be made via Patent Center in DOCX format, and participants must be enrolled in the e-Office Action program.
- Outcome: The ASRN will be placed in the official file but does not constitute an Office Action and does not require a response.
Why This Matters
This pilot reflects a broader modernization effort at the USPTO and may offer early insight into how AI will shape future patent examination workflows. For applicants, early access to AI-generated search results could provide:
- A preview of possible prior-art issues before examination;
- An opportunity to refine claim strategy early; and
- Potential cost and time efficiencies during prosecution.
SLW’s Perspective
At SLW, we view this pilot as a solid next step in the evolution of AI-assisted patent examination. Our attorneys are closely monitoring the program’s rollout and assessing how participation may benefit clients in technology-dense sectors.
For clients considering participation, SLW can advise on:
- Eligibility assessment and petition preparation;
- Strategic use of ASRN results to strengthen prosecution; and
- Integration of early prior-art insights into broader portfolio strategy.
Contact Us:
For guidance on whether participation in the USPTO Automated Search Pilot Program aligns with your filing strategy, please contact your SLW attorney or reach out via our contact form.