USPTO: Inventor's Greatest Resource

This video provides insight from some of the dynamic keynote speakers at the 14th Annual Independent Inventors Conference. Learn about the valuable resources available at USPTO and some things to think about as you start the journey of inventing.

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Trademark Newsflash: Introduction to the USPTO and Trademark Basics

This video outlines the differences between trademarks, patents, and copyrights, and introduces the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and its Trademark Information Network (TMIN) series. It provides information about the federal trademark registration process, as well as highlights the rights and protection you gain by federally registering your trademark. The video also features brief interviews with the USPTO's top-level executives: the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property, the Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property, and the Commissioner for Trademarks.

Trademark Newsflash: Before You File

This video provides an overview of the most important issues you should be aware of when filing a trademark application. It covers such topics as trademark availability searching, ownership information, differences between drawings and specimens, identifications of goods and services, and filing bases. Failure to understand these topics can create major deficiencies in your application or result in an application that is void from the start.

Trademark Newsflash: After You File

This video provides an overview of the most important issues you should be aware of after filing your application. It covers such topics as using the USPTO’s electronic resources to keep your application current, who to contact with questions, and what you must do to avoid abandonment.

Trademark Newsflash: Applicant Information

This video focuses on what is meant by the term “applicant.” Failure to understand this concept and a failure to identify the “applicant” correctly in the application may result in a void application.

Trademark Newsflash: Drawing Issues

This video focuses on what is meant by the term “drawing.” Because you may amend your mark “drawing” only in rare circumstances during the application process, it is critical that you understand this concept before filing.

Trademark Newsflash: Filing Basis Information

This video focuses on what is meant by the term “basis.” It also provides specifics about the filing requirements for both Section 1(a), Use-in-Commerce, and Section 1(b), Intent-to-Use-in-Commerce, filing bases. Selecting the correct basis is important, as an incorrect basis can result in delays or require the payment of otherwise unnecessary fees.

Trademark Newsflash: Specimen

This video focuses on what is meant by the term “specimen.” It provides examples of acceptable specimens and highlights the differences between a “drawing” and a “specimen.” As the “specimen” issue is commonly misunderstood, watching this video should help you avoid mistakes made by other applicants.

Promoting Innovation - Today's USPTO

This video features a 27 minute history and tour of the USPTO.

Is there a question about what the USPTO can or cannot do that you cannot find an answer for? Send questions about USPTO programs and services to the USPTO Contact Center (UCC). You can suggest USPTO webpages or material you would like featured on this section by E-mail to the webmaster@uspto.gov. While we cannot promise to accommodate all requests, your suggestions will be considered and may lead to other improvements on the website.