Quantum technologies are among the technological fields of the future with the strongest innovation momentum at present. A recent analysis by the European Patent Office (EPO) shows that:
The number of international patent families in the field of quantum technology has increased fivefold within a decade.
This development is a clear signal to companies, start-ups, and research institutions: patents are increasingly becoming a strategic competitive factor in the quantum field.
What does the European Patent Office’s analysis show?
The EPO examines innovation dynamics using so-called international patent families (IPFs) – i.e., inventions for which patent applications have been filed in at least two countries. These are considered particularly meaningful for economically relevant technologies.
The key findings:
- Massive growth: Since around 2015, the number of quantum technology IPFs has increased fivefold.
- Three technological focal points:
- Quantum computing and quantum simulation
- Quantum communication
- Quantum sensor technology and metrology
- Shift in innovation focus: While quantum communication initially dominated, quantum computer-related developments are becoming increasingly important.
These figures prove that quantum technology is no longer just basic research, but is increasingly gaining industrial relevance.
Why is this particularly challenging in terms of intellectual property law?
Quantum technology inventions often operate at the interface between:
- physics (e.g., quantum states, entanglement),
- computer science (algorithms, error correction),
- hardware (semiconductors, cryogenics, sensor technology),
- and classical engineering.
This poses particular challenges in terms of patent law. A sound technical and legal understanding is therefore crucial for the success of a patent application.
Strategic consequences for companies and applicants
- Frühzeitige Patentstrategie entwickeln
The sharp increase in applications increases the risk of overlaps. Early patent landscape and FTO analyses are therefore indispensable.
- Consider international property rights
The high number of international patent families shows that:
Relevant quantum innovations are being specifically protected internationally, often via European and PCT patent applications.
- Intellectual property protection for collaborations
Many quantum technology inventions arise from cooperation between industry and science. Clear regulations on inventorship, IP ownership, and commercialization rights are essential.
Conclusion: Quantum technology requires excellent patent expertise
The fivefold increase in patent activity documented by the EPO underscores the enormous momentum of quantum technologies.
For companies, this means that without strategically smart patent applications, they risk long-term competitive disadvantages.
In this highly complex technical environment in particular, the combination of in-depth technical understanding and precise patent law expertise is crucial for robust property rights.
We support you in patenting, strategy development, and portfolio design in the field of quantum technology – with a solid technical foundation and a European and international focus.