The Technology Platform

The National Security and Investment Act 2021 introduces new powers to scrutinise and intervene in investment transactions in the UK. The legislation is part of a global trend towards introducing foreign investment laws which has seen a number of other countries introduce similar protections

On 7 December 2021, Ofcom released a statement announcing that the UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

The UK Intellectual Property Office has launched an open consultation on Standards Essential Patents (SEPs). The Call for Views is intended to inform the Government as it considers whether the existing framework for SEPs is functioning efficiently and strikes the right balance between protecting rights holders while also encouraging innovation.

Over the past two years of the pandemic, many industries have experienced economic turmoil. However, the EdTech (Educational Technology) sector has benefited from accelerated growth and investment during this period of economic uncertainty.

It is now looking increasingly likely that, after many years of delay and doubt, the Unified Patent Court (UPC) will be operational within the next 12 months or so. The Unitary Patent will also at that point become available to provide protection in all relevant participating EU Member States.

As pressure to curb climate change grows, consumers are increasingly looking to reduce their negative impact on the planet. Responding to this consumer shift, brands are looking at ways to promote the green credentials of their products or services.

In February 2021, the Government announced its intention to regulate Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL) services. It has now published a public consultation, calling for stakeholder views on the scope and form that the proposed BNPL regulation should take.

Technology client Glamorous AI has been acquired by X- Chem with Mishcon de Reya acting for the founders and investor sellers.

The EU Commission has recently reported on comments received following a consultation on proposed revisions to the Vertical Block Exemption Regulation and Vertical Guidelines, once the current regulation expires in May 2022.

Following a Call for Views earlier this year, the Government has now published its consultation on potential changes to the UK IP protection framework, seeking to ensure that the right balance is struck between encouraging the development and use of AI across the economy, whilst not undermining IP's wider role in promoting human creativity and innovation.

A number of production studios, including Disney, Netflix and Warner Bros, have been granted a website blocking order by the High Court, targeting five websites based outside of the UK, but which were found to be targeting UK users and enabling them to stream unlawful content.