Google's Challenge to PTAB Limits Puts Reliance and Balance on the Line

Google petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court challenging USPTO's "settled expectations" doctrine that limits late-stage inter partes review (IPR) challenges at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). Google argues patents should remain open to IPR challenges regardless of age or reliance. The case centers on a 2010 VirtaMove patent. Google contends limiting late-stage IPR harms innovation, while opponents argue the doctrine restores confidence in patent durability after years of business reliance and investment.