NVIDIAs Virtual Rails, AI Innovations for Switch 2, and Apple Watch Design Updates: Weekly News Roundup

Nintendo is exploring the use of artificial intelligence to generate higher-resolution images for the upcoming Switch 2, NVIDIA is set to introduce virtual rail buses, and Wearable Devices is developing wearable scales. We cover these and other news related to intellectual property.

New WIPO Rankings

In 2024, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) reported a surge in registrations across global registers. Applications submitted under the Hague System increased by 6.8%, while the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) saw a rise of 0.5%. After two consecutive years of decline, the Madrid System for the International Registration of Marks recorded a 1.2% increase.

China led the way in PCT applications with 70,160 submissions (up 0.9%), followed by the United States with 54,087 (down 2.8%) and Japan with 48,397 (down 1.2%). Among companies, Huawei was at the forefront with 6,600 applications, trailed by Samsung with 4,640 and Qualcomm with 3,848. The U.S. accounted for the highest number of international trademark applications within the Madrid System (11,270), followed by Germany (6,449) and China (5,828). Furthermore, L’Oréal has maintained its leading position for the fourth consecutive year. In the Hague System for industrial design patents, China topped the list with 4,870 designs, followed by Germany (4,218) and the U.S. (3,034), with Procter & Gamble leading among companies with 641 designs.

Despite sanctions, Russia is witnessing a growth in patents. In 2024, the country submitted 709 international patent applications, which is a 4% increase compared to 681 in 2023.

The number of Russian trademark applications has decreased, amounting to 1,474 in 2024, a 6% decline from 1,565 in 2023.

Playing with AI

The Switch 2 may incorporate artificial intelligence for generating gameplay images with enhanced resolution (up to 1080) without needing more powerful hardware. This is indicated by an updated Nintendo patent. It’s likely that AI technology similar to NVIDIA’s DLSS will be utilized in the Switch 2, although specific details are still unavailable.

Wearable Devices Ltd., an innovator in contactless wearable gadgets powered by AI, has received a patent titled “Gesture and Voice-Controlled Interface Device.” This technology enables the measurement of physical properties such as weight or force through gestures, integrated with AI. Essentially, the interface could function as wearable scales. The company anticipates that this patented technology will enhance user experience across various fields, including industrial applications where productivity could be improved.

Design Updates

Apple has secured an additional 35 design patents in Germany, covering various features of the Apple Watch, Apple Watch Ultra, and CarPlay. No additional details have been provided beyond the images. The company also submitted a trademark application for “Quantec” related to Apple Logic Pro (a music creation product) in Hong Kong.

Future Transportation

General Motors and NVIDIA have announced a partnership focused on AI for developing next-generation vehicles, with NVIDIA particularly strong in autonomous vehicles. At the end of February 2025, NVIDIA submitted a patent application for computer-controlled shuttles, buses, and robotaxis. For instance, an automated rail service known as “GoA4” is already in use in the UK and Japan. The train running between London’s Victoria Station and Gatwick Airport is fully autonomous, including door operations, obstacle detection, and emergency response.

According to NVIDIA’s patent, the vehicle could autonomously generate a virtual rail based on previously saved routes and navigate along it. Passengers on board would interact with the shuttle through an onboard client interface application.

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