MaxVal’s 2025 Patent Trends Report analyzes more than 3.5 million patent applications worldwide. Global filings increased by just 1.3%, but the data shows a major shift: China now accounts for nearly half of all filings, while several leading U.S. corporations have seen notable declines.
The report also highlights where innovation is accelerating — including a 40% surge in AI patents — and reveals how key players like SoftBank are positioning themselves for 2026.
Key highlights include:
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Global Overview
3.5M patent publications in 2025 (+1.3% YoY); China accounted for ~49% of filings. U.S. filings declined among Apple, Qualcomm, and IBM. -
Corporate Leaders
Samsung was the top global assignee; 8 of the top 10 were Asia-based. SoftBank filed 10,000+ AI patents, mainly in Japan. -
Sector Trends
Internet/Software/IT grew 9%, followed by Consumer Electronics (+4%) and Chemicals (+2%), driven by AI, EVs, biotech, and sustainability. -
Regional & Emerging Insights
Top jurisdictions: China, U.S., Japan, Korea, and EPO. Academia contributed ~2% of filings. Fast-growing areas include AI models, digital twins, immunotherapies, and energy storage.