Intellectual Property in Electronics and Software A Global Guide to Rights and Their Applications

The software, communications and electronics markets are among the most innovative and competitive industries in the world. Robust competition means that developers and manufacturers of software, mobile phones, gaming devices, computers, digital cameras and other consumer electronics and appliances must leverage their IP rights to sustain competitive advantage. However, this can be difficult, as much innovation takes place at the intersection of patent, design and copyright law; and although much law is harmonised, there are still significant national variations both in law and in practice. Intellectual Property in Electronics and Software is a new title designed to provide practical guidance on the IP issues affecting companies working in this area. A unique compendium, it addresses the key issues of IP law in the major jurisdictions worldwide where software and electronics are developed and sold as they impact on software and electronics companies. Topics covered include the challenges of obtaining protection; software protection and the limits of patentability; patent strategy, including approaches to patent drafting to maximise protection; standards setting and reasonable and non-discriminatory licensing; open source software; and other forms of protection such as unfair competition and design rights. Written by a team of leading specialists in IP law, the book will serve as an invaluable guide to navigating the complex and overlapping rights which protect innovation in this field.