Graphical user interfaces can be protected in China

From May 1, graphical user interfaces (GUI) will become eligible for design patent protection in China, following a revision of the examination guidelines by the State Intellectual Property Office (SIPO). However, designs which are unrelated to human-machine interaction or product function, such as wallpaper on an electronic screen, will remain unprotected under the revised examination guidelines.

Moreover, in 2014 the Supreme People’s Court of China will push the establishment of intellectual property courts. The initiatives from the Chinese authorities are intended to improve the judicial system of IPR and create a hospitable environment for the industries in China.