LIVE FROM BEIJING, CHINA: In a forward-looking move at the annual Innovation and Intellectual Property Forum, Alan Fan, head of Huawei’s Intellectual Property Rights department, outlined a novel approach to patenting artificial intelligence (AI) technology. Emphasizing the uniqueness of AI compared to traditional telecom standards such as 5G, Fan highlighted that AI requires a distinct strategy for intellectual property protection.
Fan stressed during a media roundtable discussion that Huawei’s patents on AI technologies are aimed at safeguarding their comprehensive ecosystem rather than merely protecting individual innovations. This philosophy is crucial in the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence where collaboration and interoperability among various players can accelerate technological advancement.
The Need for New Patent Rules
Fan argued that the current patent system, designed primarily for technologies like 5G telecommunications standards, may not be adequately suited to foster innovation in AI. He suggested that an ecosystem-oriented approach is more appropriate and beneficial for AI development, allowing for open-source contributions while still protecting intellectual property.
Protecting Ecosystems vs Monetizing Patents
In contrast to monetizing individual patent filings, Fan emphasized the importance of safeguarding entire ecosystems. He stated, "The purpose of applying for our AI patents is to protect our AI-related ecosystems and related algorithms so that we can open up those patents for all partners to use."
This approach contrasts significantly with traditional IP strategies focused on patent royalties from other parties. Fan’s message underscores Huawei’s commitment to fostering an environment where innovation can flourish without barriers.
Supporting Emerging Economies Through Open Innovation
Fan also addressed how Huawei’s technologies, including AI and cloud computing platforms like Huawei Cloud, play a pivotal role in enabling economic growth in developing countries. With over 8.5 million developers on its platform, Huawei aims to facilitate local app development and industry growth.
"Developing countries don’t have companies like Nvidia or Google," noted Fan. "Our technologies can help those countries grow their own industries and businesses."
Conclusion
The proposed shift in patent strategy by Huawei is not just about protecting intellectual property but fostering an environment where innovation thrives globally. By focusing on ecosystem protection rather than individual patents, Fan believes that AI can be developed more collaboratively, leading to broader technological advancement and economic benefits worldwide.
