Mapping the Patent Landscape of Quantum Technologies: Evolving Patenting Trends and Policy Implications (2025 Update)

Mateo Aboy (), Cristina Crespo and Timo Minssen
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Mateo Aboy: Centre for Law, Medicine and Life Sciences (LML) and Centre for Intellectual Property and Information Law (CIPIL), University of Cambridge
Cristina Crespo: Centre for Law, Medicine and Life Sciences (LML) and Centre for Intellectual Property and Information Law (CIPIL), University of Cambridge
Timo Minssen: Center for Advanced Studies in Bioscience Innovation Law (CeBIL), University of Copenhagen

A chapter in Quantum Technology Governance I, 2026, pp 125-147 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract Recent advancements in quantum science highlight the potential transformative capabilities of second-generation (2G) quantum technologies, such as quantum computing, quantum communications, and quantum sensing. Patenting trends in such technologies serve as key indicators of innovation pace at the invention stage. Empirical analyses of real-world patenting activity offer essential evidence to evaluate and inform policy proposals on intellectual property rights, innovation, and governance in quantum technologies. Building upon the insights gained from our earlier 2022 study mapping the patent landscape of quantum technologies, this chapter reports the results of an updated study incorporating data up to October 2025. We assess patenting trends over the period from 2001 to 2025 to determine: (1) the growth of quantum technology patents, (2) the technology breakdown and classification of patenting activity, (3) the choice of priority patent office, (4) the types of patent claims and strategies, (5) the subject matter of recently awarded patents, (6) the top patent owners, (7) the dominant patent portfolios, and (8) the geographical distribution of this activity. Drawing on this landscape analysis, we critically evaluate the impact of patents in the field of quantum technologies, ranging from their significance in incentivising innovation to their private value effects. Our findings show how patent disclosures are contributing to an emerging quantum information commons, progressively enriching the public domain. Furthermore, we explore the innovation and policy implications of these results within the broader framework of quantum innovation initiatives, market competition dynamics, the patent-trade secret interface, and the governance of quantum technologies, emphasizing the role of patents in fostering disclosure amid rapid commercialization and geopolitical shifts.

Keywords: Quantum technologies; Quantum computing; Quantum patent landscape; Quantum innovation landscape; Quantum innovation policy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1007/978-981-95-8371-3_4

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