1. Do a Patent Search or App Idea Search.
This is actually the right off the bat you must do. Often, a straightforward Google search will show you if a similar app already exists. If you can locate an app with features like yours inside the App Store, then your chances of obtaining a patent is going to be grim. It's also advisable to search the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO.gov) how do people check if a patent already exists. You should search using different keywords and descriptions to make sure nothing closely similar to your idea exists. If you don't find anything similar, then you're inside a great place to try to get a patent. If you discover something which is sort of near to your app idea, you may want to improve your idea to really make it unique. You are able to employ a patent lawyer to do a search for you. They don't charge too much for searching, however you normally can do of the same quality or perhaps a better job yourself. Google, App Stores and USPTO are great sources to search when you apply for a patent, as the patent office may also search into these databases to find a match.
2. Create Design Documentation to your App Idea
Once you see that no similar app idea exists, you will have to document your idea. Essentially, that means you need to describe the style, features of your app in the document together with your patent application. Your app's documentation will precisely describe what's unique about your app. It's also advisable to create wire-frames and flow charts for the application. Wire-frames can show what your app screen's may appear to be when it comes to data, flow and features. You may also create a flow diagram to spell it out key flow and use of the job. If you're not capable of doing this yourself, you can hire an application design or app development company to do it to suit your needs. You can also work with a UI/UX designer to create heightened design documentation. This will often in PDF format.
3. Declare a Provisional Patent
Once you have assembled your documentation, you ought to file for a provisional patent, which can be easier to file (it can be done yourself right on the USPTO.gov website. You will not must hire a costly patent lawyer to achieve this. You'll just need to spend the money for $65 online application fee to make it happen. Once you send the application form online, you will get a provisional, one-year patent, during which you can convert your idea perfectly into a reality.
4. Convert Provisional Patent into Non-provisional Patent
If in your one year of provisional patent coverage, you choose that your idea will success, you'll want to apply for a non-provisional patent. This method may more tedious compared to provisional patent process, however, you will find all the information you'll need around the USPTO website. You could, at this stage, want to hire a patent lawyer to file for your patent application for you personally, specifically if you have observed some success with your app in the market. If success appears likely, you might want to employ a professional to ensure the job goes smoothly.
Obtaining a patent is long, detailed process, however if you keep to the well-detailed procedures in the method, you will be able to decrease the costs. The USPTO has made its website very simple and straightforward to navigate. You can also call them when you have questions in regards to the process.