In October 2024, the number of patent transactions was over 1,600, marking a significant surge in activity. Notable sectors included telecommunications, semiconductors, and cybersecurity.
This article delves into the major transactions of the month, highlights the top players, and explores the technologies gaining momentum. It offers insights to help you refine your strategy for partnerships, acquisitions, and competitive positioning.
Subscribe to our IP newsletter to stay informed on upcoming trends, industry-specific insights, and potential litigation risks.
Special feature of this month
Intellectual Ventures’ patent consolidation to Integral Wireless LLC
Building on its activity from last month, Intellectual Ventures (IV) transferred three more patents from Callahan Cellular in October and four from Zarbaña Digital Fund LLC.
Beyond these expansions, IV has transferred another 19 patents from its collection, a diverse set drawn from four entities: S Aqua Semiconductor LLC, Gula Consulting Limited Liability Company, Nytell Software LLC, and Xylon LLC.
These transferred patents have been consolidated under Integral Wireless Technologies LLC, a single entity handling these diverse assets. The portfolio includes semiconductor memory, wireless networks, Voice over IP (VoIP), data handling, and search engine application technologies.
Breakdown of patent assignments:
| Assignor | Assignee | Patent Numbers | No. of Patents Transferred | Technology |
| S Aqua Semiconductor LLC | Integral Wireless Technologies LLC | US7254690, US20080010429 | 2 | Semiconductor (Memory) |
| Callahan Cellular LLC | Integral Wireless Technologies LLC | US7269224, US7310537, US7536578 | 3 | Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO), Beamforming, Clock Generators |
| Gula Consulting Limited Liability Company | Integral Wireless Technologies LLC | US7444358, US7483878, US8073866, US9495446 | 13 | Content Management & Hosting Services (Content Personalization) |
| Nytell Software LLC | Integral Wireless Technologies LLC | US7546508, US8707044 | 2 | VoIP, In-vehicle infotainment systems and connected car technology |
| Zarbaña Digital Fund LLC | Integral Wireless Technologies LLC | US7548592, US7738595 | 4 | Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) |
| Xylon LLC | Integral Wireless Technologies LLC | US7707213, US7707214 | 2 | Data Processing and Computer Systems |
Interestingly, the acquired portfolio includes patents originally filed by industry giants, such as Nokia’s US7310537B2 on beam networks and US7546508B2 for VoIP, along with NXP’s US7536578B2 related to clock generators.
Mary Kay’s recent patent activity: Signaling upcoming patent litigation in the cosmetics domain?
Mary Kay, a leader in the cosmetics industry, recently transferred two key patent families to Allustra Technologies. While Mary Kay’s precise motives for these transfers remain unclear, the move aligns with its history of patent litigation.
For instance, Allustra Technologies, an affiliate of Mary Kay, previously filed a lawsuit against Clarins U.S.A., Inc. (Case No. 22-CV-9948), alleging patent infringement related to oxidative damage and hyperpigmentation formulations.
With these new patents being transferred, future litigation efforts could target global skincare giants as well as niche players.
The Technologies in Focus and their Potential Impacts on Industry Players
- Anti-Aging Innovations Using Prickly Pear Extract
- The first group of patents involves anti-aging skincare formulations centered on prickly pear extract. These technologies highlight advancements in natural, anhydrous formulations and could pose competition for companies that have also been exploring plant-based anti-aging solutions.
- This technology may also have implications for companies already leveraging natural skincare innovations, as patent enforcement by Mary Kay or Allustra Technologies could increase scrutiny on formulations overlapping with these patents.
- Hyperpigmentation and Uneven Skin Tone Solutions
- The second family includes five patents focused on treating hyperpigmentation and protecting skin from UV-induced damage. These patents address brightening and protective skincare formulations using a lactobacillus ferment blend and plant extracts like Ferula foetida root, sunflower seed extract, and niacinamide.
- Companies offering products targeting hyperpigmentation and boutique skincare brands leaning on similar natural formulations must reevaluate their product pipelines to avoid potential IP conflicts.
WithSecure transfers cyber security patents to RPX
WithSecure Corporation has recently transferred 30 valuable patents to RPX. Initially developed by F-Secure Oyj, these patents cover several critical technology domains, including web safety, device synchronization, advanced authentication, network security, and malware detection.
Key Notable Patents and Their Impact
- Web Safety Technologies (US8745733B2):
This patent enables safer web browsing by verifying web page integrity through real-time checks. It is crucial for cybersecurity firms to enhance content moderation systems to protect users from evolving digital threats. - Device Synchronization Solutions (US9021136B2):
Introducing automated file synchronization across devices, this patent reduces manual efforts, making it invaluable for businesses managing IoT ecosystems or smart home networks. - Advanced Authentication and Security Protocols (US10050977B2):
This patent provides enhanced software authentication by adding certificate validation conditions. It is vital for industries like finance and healthcare, which depend on robust cybersecurity frameworks for cloud-based operations. - Network Security and Certificate Management (US9490986B2):
Designed to mitigate man-in-the-middle attacks, this patent adds layers of authentication to ensure secure communications. It is especially beneficial for sectors like telecommunications and government organizations where compliance and data integrity are paramount. - Malware Detection and Removal Mechanisms (US9665712B2):
Offering advanced malware scanning techniques via secondary operating systems, this patent ensures comprehensive protection even when the primary OS is compromised. It is essential for vendors to tackle sophisticated and rapidly evolving cyber threats.
RPX’s acquisition has made these patents accessible to a broader market, creating a prime opportunity for companies to strengthen their cybersecurity measures or enhance their product offerings. Conducting an FTO search and exploring licensing options through RPX ensures organizations stay competitive while avoiding IP conflicts.
For more details on leveraging and integrating these patents into your innovation strategy, contact us today.
Insights Overview
The IP landscape in October witnessed 1,618 patent transfers, reflecting a dynamic month across various industries. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- 114 patents were transferred to 24 companies across diverse sectors, showcasing significant acquisition activity.
- 575 patents were internally reassigned within entities (e.g., parent to subsidiary or company-inventor transfers), indicating restructuring rather than a change of ownership.
- 929 patents were mortgaged by 83 firms, underlining the growing trend of using IP assets as collateral.
1. Top Buyers
This month, most IP transfers involved acquisitions by operating companies. However, a few standout buyers, as highlighted in the special features, have shaped the market dynamics.
Here is the list of top 5 buyers :
| Assignee(s) | Industry |
| Rpx Corporation | Risk Management |
| Integral Wireless LLC | Intellectual Property Management |
| Advanzinnovation Llc | Innovation & Technology |
| Picmore Technology Pte Ltd | Electronics |
| Md Antonacci Family Trust | Healthcare |
| Sigmastar Technology Ltd | Semiconductor Technology |
If you want to buy patents in similar technology, it’s crucial to identify the right sellers and set up the appropriate process for these transactions.
GreyB helps businesses understand and navigate the world of patent transactions and intellectual property with clarity and purpose. Partnering with GreyB means discovering new opportunities, protecting your intellectual property, and making confident, well-informed decisions. Our team specializes in patent analysis, technology research, and competitive insights, offering practical strategies tailored to your goals.
At GreyB, we believe in going beyond just insights. We provide clear, actionable plans that help you stay competitive and prepared in a fast-evolving market. We take your challenges seriously, working alongside you to find the most valuable opportunities for growth and protection.
2. Top Sellers
The analysis of recent transactions highlights several key sellers across diverse industries. The table below lists the companies actively acquiring patents and the sectors they operate in:
| Assignor | Industry |
| WithSecure Corporation | Cybersecurity |
| Gula Consulting Limited Liability | Intellectual Property Management |
| Sdi Global Llc | Innovation & Technology |
| Innolight Technology Suzhou Ltd | Optical Communication |
| Jointmicro Technology Inc | Semiconductor Technology |
| Institute For Spine & Scoliosis PA | Healthcare |
3. Trends in Patent Mortgaging
Using patents as collateral for financing is a growing trend in the biotechnology, semiconductors, and telecommunications industries.
Here’s an industry-wise breakdown of mortgaging activity:
1. Technology and Telecommunications
Key sectors: software, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, networking, cloud computing, telecommunications equipment, and augmented reality.
Companies include Malwarebytes Inc., Vectra AI Inc., Trustwave Holdings Inc., Kore AI Inc., Aryaka Networks Inc, Viaphoton Inc., Path Robotics Inc., and more.
2. Healthcare and Life Sciences
Key sectors: pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, orthotics, healthcare consulting, and biologics.
Companies include Hanger Inc., Aspen Medical Products LLC, Fillauer Companies Inc., Eagle Pharmaceuticals, Quincy Bioscience LLC, Recombinetics, and more
3. Industrial and Manufacturing
Key sectors: aerospace, defense, nuclear energy, oil and gas equipment, industrial equipment, and manufacturing technologies.
Companies include Antenna Research Associates Inc., Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation, Abaco Drilling Technologies LLC, American Louver Company, Ceco Environmental IP Inc., and others.
4. Consumer Goods and Retail
Key sectors: e-commerce, retail, consumer products, and entertainment.
Companies include Sunny Days Entertainment LLC, Gallant Pet Inc., Squarespace Inc., Dribbleup Inc., and The Finish Line.
5. Miscellaneous/Others
Companies spanning diverse fields that don’t fit neatly into the above categories.
Examples include Spikes Holding LLC, City Gear LLC, F&F Fumigation, and Do It Best Corp.
4. Role of Financial Institutions – Banks & Private Equity Firms
Financial institutions continue to play a pivotal role in IP transactions, particularly through loans secured by patents. Below is a summary of leading banks and private equity firms and the technology areas they are supporting:
Top 5 Banks
| Banks | Technology areas where funding was provided |
| Wells Fargo | Cybersecurity, HealthCare Services, Furniture & Cabinetry, Retail |
| Barclays | Orthotics & Prosthetics, Automation & Robotics, Medical Devices, Rehabilitation Technology, Apparel Manufacturing & Distribution |
| JP Morgan | Pharmaceuticals, Audio-Video, Office & Industrial Supplies, Biotechnology, Telecommunications |
| Bank of America | Telecommunications Equipment, Oil & Gas Equipment, Environmental Technology |
| Deutsche Bank | Apparel Manufacturing & Distribution |
Top 5 Equity Firms
| Private Equity Firms | Technology areas where funding was provided |
| Wilmington Trust | Apparel Manufacturing & Distribution, Industrial Services, Telecommunications, Pest Control Services |
| Capital One National Association | Antenna, Construction Equipment Technology |
| Viola Credit Partners Ltd | Software Development |
| Ab Private Credit Investors Llc | Cybersecurity |
| Cybereason Inc | Cybersecurity |
Conclusion
Observing the activities of key players involved in patent acquisitions highlights changing market priorities and potential opportunities for collaboration or competition. Keeping up with these patent trends across various industries allows you to take advantage of high-demand technologies and minimize potential risks before they affect operations.
Subscribe to GreyB’s IP newsletter to create a stronger IP strategy.
Authored By: Ojasvi Jain, Solutions Team
