Question
For a startup based on a new technology, it looks like a common business strategy is to apply for a patent and then keep the technology a secret for as long as possible, not even publishing scientific papers on the new tech. Why is this? Couldn't it be a better strategy for us to apply for a patent and then talk about the technology and generate buzz and exposure for the company?
Answers: 2 public & 0 private
Hi,
Sometimes people file, then they want to fine tune the product some more. So they wait to go public, because they may want to file another patent on the new fine tuned areas (multiple patents in an area), or add it as a continuation in part (CIP) to the parent application. They may have other business goals to wait.
Others, file, and like you suggest, and go public to try an build up capital etc. It all depends on your goals.
Either way, keep in mind, that what is contained in the application is all that is protected. So if you file on ABC, but go public on ABCD. "D" wasn't part of the original application and you may lose protection by going public with "D."
Hope this helps,
Mary
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