Find out the answers to all things Cipher
Frequently asked questions
Our FAQs
What is Cipher exactly?
Cipher is a technology platform which uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to provide customers insights into complex landscapes of patented technology to support their strategic IP decisions.
Cipher automatically maps patents to technologies to enable companies to analyse the landscape through a technology lens.
How can I access Cipher?
Cipher is accessed via an online portal, which will be tailored to your team’s requirements.
Our representatives will be able to arrange trial access following a consultation.
What patent and business needs can Cipher assist with?
Cipher is much more than patent data analysis. Our customers use Cipher to assist with multiple areas of business:
| Benchmarking | Due Diligence | Portfolio Optimisation |
| Budget Management | Inbound Patent Assertion | Risk Mitigation |
| Competitive Intelligence | Monetisation | Technology trends |
| Cross Licensing |
Are there options within Cipher?
Yes. You can choose to have a custom taxonomy for your account.
We also provide Cipher Certified – where users are trained to build their own classifiers.
Our representatives will be able to outline your options – please contact us to discuss your requirements.
How much does Cipher cost?
This will depend on the number of patents and patent families which your business owns. One of our friendly Cipher representatives will be only too happy to talk through your options with you.
Which industries can Cipher scan patents for?
The short answer is – all industries.
However, we have in place industry-specific taxonomies for:
| Aerospace and Defence | FMCG | MedTech |
| Automotive | HEVC SEPs | Semiconductor |
| FinTech | Industrial Automation |
If there is an area of industry you require, which is not on this list, we provide a Custom Taxonomy. Please contact us if you would like to learn more.
In 2021, Cipher published its Universal Technology Taxonomy, which is the first taxonomy to provide a consistent and objective analysis of patented technologies owned by all companies globally.
Where can I see examples of what Cipher does?
Cipher has published a number of reports, insights and case studies, demonstrating the scope of the platform.
Each of our Solutions and Taxonomies has a sample report available for download.
In 2022, Cipher published its A Global View of Innovation report, scanning seven million technology patents to identify industry trends worldwide.
I have a question which is not covered here
Our friendly experts are always happy to discuss your queries. On our contact page, there are options to arrange a callback with our team at a time convenient to you, wherever you are in the world.
Insights & Events
Global Standards Leadership Conference 2023
We will be attending the Global Standards Leadership Conference 2023 in San Diego on 15 June, to gain more insight into technology standards.
Read more
21st Century Evolution of Sustainable Plastic Technology Trends
To mark World Environment Day, Cipher tracks sustainable plastics technology innovators and owners in the 21st century.
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IPBC Global 2023
We are looking ahead to a fantastic event in San Diego. IPBC Global will take place from 12 to 14 June and brings together leading IP professionals.
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The increasing importance of IP
How intellectual property (IP) moved into the business mainstream, as seen from the perspective of guests on the Cipher Vision Podcast.
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IP Counsel Cafe Annual Palo Alto Meeting
We joined the conversation on Hidden Risks and Opportunities at IP Counsel Cafe’s Annual Palo Alto Meeting, on 2 to 4 May 2023.
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Game Over for the West?
Our report looking at patent owners of gaming technology found that Japanese firms dominated but it also uncovered some unexpected trends.
Read more
With Cipher you can…
Optimise your portfolio
Ensure you have the right portfolio to meet your strategic patenting objectives.
Gather competitor intelligence
Understand who’s doing what by automating patent to technology mapping.
Model cross licensing
Combine patent and revenue data to determine rational licensing outcomes.
Manage your budget
Justify patent budgets and communicate the impact of your investment.
Conduct due diligence
Automate manual reviews for efficient execution of M&A and licensing transactions.
Tackle inbound patent assertion
Be prepared with evidence to create a fast and effective threat assessment.
Benchmark your portfolio
Assess your portfolio in comparison to other owners through your technology lens.
Monetise your portfolio
Identify opportunities to create value through licensing or sale of patent assets.
Predict technology trends
Track new technologies and discover the unknown owners of future innovation.
Create Risk Mitigation Strategies
Understand the materiality of your threats to define your risk mitigation strategy.