USPTO Enhances Patent Search Tool for Ecommerce Sector

Published: 01/04/2026
Patent Search Cross-border E-commerce USPTO
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has launched a new version of its public patent search tool (PPUBS), replacing the old one. This article details the search process of PPUBS, including keyword search and the use of advanced search codes. It emphasizes the importance of PPUBS for cross-border e-commerce sellers to avoid infringement risks, suggesting that sellers master it as soon as possible. Understanding the new system is crucial for ensuring products do not violate existing patents and for staying competitive in the global marketplace.
USPTO Enhances Patent Search Tool for Ecommerce Sector

For cross-border e-commerce sellers conducting product selection and market research, patent searches are a crucial step in avoiding infringement risks. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) officially launched its new Patent Public Search tool (PPUBS) on September 30, replacing the previous four search tools: PubEAST, PubWEST, PatFT, and AppFT.

Legacy Tools Retired as PPUBS Makes Its Debut

This update from the USPTO represents more than just an interface refresh—it's a comprehensive upgrade of underlying logic and functionality. The legacy tools were cumbersome to operate and inefficient for searching, failing to meet growing patent search demands. The launch of PPUBS marks a new era in U.S. patent searching, with significant improvements in search speed, data integration, and user experience, providing cross-border e-commerce sellers with a more convenient and efficient patent search solution.

Detailed PPUBS Search Process

The new PPUBS interface is more intuitive and user-friendly, allowing even first-time users to navigate it easily. Here's a step-by-step guide to conducting searches:

  • Access the USPTO website: Begin by visiting the official USPTO website and selecting the "Patents" section.
  • Navigate to Patent Public Search: On the subsequent page, locate and click the "Patent Public Search" link to access the PPUBS interface.
  • Initiate your search: Click the "Start search" button to reach the keyword input screen.
  • Enter keywords and search: Input relevant terms such as patent numbers, product names, or assignee names in the search box, then click "Search" to execute your query.
  • Review results: The system will display results in list format, with each entry containing detailed patent information including abstracts, claims, and drawings.

Advanced Search: Using Query Codes for Precision

Beyond basic keyword searches, PPUBS supports advanced searching using specific query codes to enhance accuracy and efficiency. Some commonly used codes include:

  • Title search (ti): Finds patents containing specific words in their titles (e.g., "umbrella.ti." searches for patents with "umbrella" in the title).
  • Assignee search (aanm): Locates patents assigned to specific individuals or companies (e.g., "lisi.aanm." finds patents assigned to "lisi").

How E-Commerce Sellers Can Use PPUBS for Risk Mitigation

For cross-border e-commerce sellers, PPUBS serves as an invaluable resource to:

  • Product selection: Research patents in relevant fields before listing products to avoid infringement.
  • Market research: Analyze competitors' patent portfolios to develop more effective business strategies.
  • Product development: Review existing patents to prevent redundant development and identify innovation opportunities.

Conclusion

The launch of USPTO's new Patent Public Search tool provides cross-border e-commerce sellers with a more powerful and user-friendly platform for patent research. Mastering PPUBS can help sellers effectively navigate infringement risks while enhancing market competitiveness. E-commerce businesses are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new tool's workflow and incorporate it into their regular product selection and market analysis processes.

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