January 15, 2026 -- Industry Minister Mélanie Joly is reportedly evaluating  a proposal from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (“CIPO”) that would accelerate patent applications in artificial intelligence, quantum, energy and critical mineral sectors. The expedited timeline is reportedly expected to attract investment and spur innovation across strategic industries. CIPO currently offers expedited patent applications at no cost  for qualifying “green” technologies, CO

January 12, 2026 -- Veteran rock photographer, Neil Zlozower , reportedly sued the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for allegedly using his copyrighted images of Eddie Van Halen in its museum exhibits without his permission and without providing appropriate photo credits in the displays. The United States District Court ruled that the fair use doctrine protected the museum’s use of the photo. In the United States, the fair use doctrine  provides legal protection where copyrighted

January 5, 2026 -- The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington (“District Court”) reportedly reinstated the Canadian government’s patent for the “Staccato” cherry, developed by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (“AAFC”). The reinstatement follows a lengthy dispute with an American cherry farmer who allegedly attempted to pass off Staccato cherries as his own “Glory” variety . According to CBC News , the Staccato cherry is known for its late maturity, which

November 10, 2025 -- As reported by the Associated Press , Columbia Sportswear has sued  Columbia University, claiming that the university infringed the sportswear company’s trademark and breached an agreement between the parties from June 2023. It is reported that, as part of the agreement, the two parties agreed that Columbia University could emblazon “Columbia” on their apparel, on the condition that it be accompanied by one of: the school insignia or its mascot, the word