National IP Office Updates Examination Guidelines

The office announced updates to its trademark examination manual, incorporating recent case law and procedural clarifications for applications in multiple classes. The changes aim to streamline review processes and address issues arising in digital and virtual goods categories.

Applicants and practitioners are advised to review the new provisions before filing or responding to office actions. The update reflects ongoing efforts to align examination practices with evolving commercial practices.

Implementation of the revised guidelines begins immediately for new applications.

Sources: https://www.uspto.gov/subscription-center/2026/trademark-manual-examining-procedure-update-now-available https://tmep.uspto.gov/RDMS/TMEP/current