Innovation moves fast. Every year, companies across the world race to protect their ideas. One of the best ways they do that? Filing patents. Patents help businesses protect their inventions, gain a competitive edge, and show the world they’re leading in innovation. But which companies are doing this the most?
1. IBM filed 4,743 U.S. patents in 2023
IBM’s Patent Powerhouse
IBM has long been known as a tech giant. But what truly sets them apart is how they treat innovation like a business asset. Filing over 4,700 patents in one year isn’t luck—it’s strategy.
At the heart of IBM’s patent strategy is their strong focus on R&D. They spend billions annually researching everything from AI to cloud computing. What they’ve figured out is that filing a patent isn’t just about protecting a product—it’s about shaping the future of entire industries.
How IBM Does It
IBM has a culture of invention. Their employees are encouraged (and incentivized) to file patents. They even have internal programs that train employees on how to spot patentable ideas. This approach makes innovation a part of everyday work.
They also partner with universities and startups to co-develop new technologies. This means their ideas aren’t locked within their walls—they’re always learning and improving from outside voices.
Actionable Advice
For any business, big or small, there are lessons here. If you want to innovate like IBM:
- Build an internal culture where ideas are valued.
- Educate your team about what makes an idea patentable.
- Create reward systems for employees who develop new ideas.
- Collaborate with researchers or startups to expand your innovation pipeline.
This doesn’t mean you need a massive budget. Even small companies can start by filing just one strong patent a year and gradually build from there.
2. Samsung Electronics filed 4,327 U.S. patents in 2023
Samsung’s Innovation Engine
Samsung is more than a phone company. Their patent portfolio covers semiconductors, smart devices, display tech, and AI. Their ability to consistently file thousands of patents every year comes from a sharp focus on future tech.
Samsung invests over $15 billion each year into research. But what stands out is how they blend consumer insight with technical know-how. They don’t just build new things—they build things people want.
Strategic Moves
Samsung’s global R&D hubs play a big role. They have innovation centers in the U.S., South Korea, India, and Europe. These centers are laser-focused on solving local problems with global applications.
Another key factor? Speed. Samsung files fast. They have in-house legal and patent teams that work closely with engineers. This cuts delays and keeps competitors from catching up.
Actionable Advice
Want to move like Samsung?
- Listen closely to customer needs—they often spark the best ideas.
- Set up a system where your legal and tech teams work together.
- Focus on speed—quick filing can mean quicker market advantages.
Even small companies can benefit from filing early and often.
3. Canon filed 3,500+ U.S. patents in 2023
Canon’s Quiet Dominance
Canon might not make headlines like other tech firms, but they’re one of the most consistent patent filers in the world. Their strength lies in optics and imaging, but they’ve expanded into AI, healthcare, and printing technologies.
The Canon Approach
Canon believes in steady, long-term investment in R&D. They’ve built a strong in-house research network that keeps them ahead of industry changes.
What’s unique about Canon is their focus on quality over quantity. Even though they file thousands of patents, each one is tightly aligned with their business strategy.
Actionable Advice
- Focus on core strengths, but don’t be afraid to explore new sectors.
- Align your patent strategy with long-term company goals.
- Make sure each patent adds real business value, not just numbers.
4. TSMC filed 3,000+ U.S. patents in 2023
TSMC’s Semiconductor Lead
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is the world’s largest contract chipmaker. Their patents cover everything from advanced chip fabrication to power efficiency.
Their secret? World-class engineering paired with disciplined IP management.
Smart Patenting
TSMC files patents with one goal: stay technologically ahead. Their patents are closely tied to real-world manufacturing improvements, not just lab theories.
They also patent their manufacturing processes, which adds a strong defensive layer against competitors.
Actionable Advice
- Protect not just your products, but also your processes.
- Invest in practical innovation that ties directly to business operations.
- Train engineers to think about how their work can be protected legally.
5. Huawei filed over 7,000 international patent applications in 2023
Huawei’s Global IP Strategy
Despite political challenges, Huawei has built one of the strongest patent portfolios in the world. They’re especially aggressive in filing internationally through the PCT system.
Their main areas include 5G, IoT, cloud services, and AI.
Think Global
Huawei knows patents aren’t just for local markets. By filing internationally, they secure market rights across continents. They also license their technology, turning patents into revenue streams.
Actionable Advice
- Use the PCT system to expand your IP globally.
- Think beyond protection—patents can become revenue tools.
- Build a strategy around the markets you want to enter.
6. Qualcomm filed 2,900+ U.S. patents in 2023
Qualcomm’s Licensing Empire
Qualcomm leads in wireless tech. Their patents cover 3G, 4G, 5G, and now even 6G research. But what sets them apart is how they license their tech to others.
Rather than only building products, Qualcomm earns billions by letting others use their innovations.
IP as a Business Model
Qualcomm’s licensing team is as important as their R&D team. They don’t just file patents—they monetize them.
They also defend their IP aggressively in court, ensuring competitors don’t infringe without paying.
Actionable Advice
- Explore licensing as a revenue source.
- Protect foundational technologies that others rely on.
- Treat your IP as a key business unit, not just a legal necessity.
7. LG Electronics filed 2,800+ U.S. patents in 2023
LG’s R&D Versatility
LG covers a wide range—TVs, appliances, electric vehicles, batteries. Their patent strategy matches their broad product line. They protect innovations across each segment, ensuring they can adapt to shifting market trends.
Strategic Flexibility
LG balances short-term product launches with long-term research. This allows them to file patents that serve both current and future needs.
They also collaborate with startups and universities to bring in fresh ideas.
Actionable Advice
- Balance quick wins with long-term innovation.
- File patents across multiple product areas to reduce risk.
- Collaborate externally to keep your ideas pipeline full.
8. Intel filed over 2,500 U.S. patents in 2023
Intel’s Innovation at the Core
Intel has been a pioneer in computing for decades. With over 2,500 patents filed in 2023, the company continues to lead in chip design, data centers, AI processing, and quantum computing.
What sets Intel apart is its ability to spot early trends and file patents before the market catches up. They see where the world is going and get there first.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
Intel runs advanced research labs that aren’t just thinking about tomorrow—they’re building for the next decade. Their engineers are trained to think about scalability, energy efficiency, and real-world application.
They also believe in foundational patents. These aren’t just technical tweaks—they’re ideas that shape future platforms.
Actionable Advice
- Focus on patenting foundational technologies that can be reused or licensed.
- Don’t wait for the market to ask—file based on future forecasts.
- Train your team to think long-term, not just solve short-term issues.
9. Sony filed approximately 2,300 U.S. patents in 2023
Sony’s Innovation Across Experiences
Sony is more than electronics—they’re storytellers, musicians, and inventors. Their patents span audio, gaming, cameras, and immersive tech.
What’s unique is how they innovate around user experience. Sony doesn’t just build features—they enhance how people feel when using their products.
Emotional Innovation
Whether it’s the PlayStation or high-end cameras, Sony patents experiences. They focus on how tech interacts with human senses—sound, vision, and even touch.
This emotional angle makes their patents highly valuable and hard to replicate.
Actionable Advice
- Think about how your product makes people feel.
- File patents that focus on user interface and experience.
- Use emotion-driven design as a tool for innovation.
10. Apple filed over 2,200 U.S. patents in 2023
Apple’s Focused Innovation
Apple isn’t the highest filer—but every patent they file has a purpose. Their patents usually protect sleek hardware, seamless software, and tightly integrated ecosystems.
Their strength lies in detail. From haptic feedback to display transitions, every small improvement is protected.
Integrate and Own
Apple uses patents to lock in ecosystems. Their devices work together so well because each interaction is planned and protected. Their approach is to file not just the “what,” but the “how” and “why” behind product functionality.
Actionable Advice
- Think holistically—how do your products work together?
- Protect user interactions and system integration points.
- File fewer, but stronger, patents that tie to your user journey.
11. BOE Technology filed over 9,000 global patent applications in 2023
BOE’s Global Patent Surge
BOE is a major force in display technology. Their OLED and LCD panels power devices from phones to TVs to medical equipment.
In 2023, BOE filed more global patents than nearly any other company. Their patents span material science, flexible screens, and display manufacturing.
Scaling Through IP
BOE’s strategy is aggressive and global. They aim to be the standard in display panels by patenting not just final products but every step of the production process.
They also use patents as negotiation tools in supplier deals and tech partnerships.
Actionable Advice
- Protect the supply chain—your process matters as much as your product.
- File globally if your market is international.
- Use patents as strategic leverage in vendor and partner agreements.
12. Mitsubishi Electric filed over 2,000 U.S. patents in 2023
Mitsubishi’s Engineering Edge
Mitsubishi Electric covers a broad range—energy, robotics, elevators, and semiconductors. Their patents reflect this diversity.
The company thrives on deep engineering. They file patents that improve industrial processes, automation, and environmental systems.
Engineering Meets IP
Their teams are filled with problem-solvers. When they find a more efficient or sustainable way to do something, they protect it. This gives them long-term control over key technologies.
Actionable Advice
- Encourage engineering teams to document and protect process improvements.
- Focus on practical patents that improve efficiency or sustainability.
- Think like an industrial innovator—solve real-world problems and lock in your solution.
13. Toyota filed more than 2,700 patents in 2023, especially in green tech
Toyota’s Green Patent Push
Toyota has always been ahead in hybrid and clean energy vehicles. In 2023, they doubled down on patents for EVs, hydrogen fuel cells, and sustainable transport systems.
Their approach is simple: lead in eco-innovation and protect the tech behind it.
Greening the Road Ahead
Toyota has built an IP fortress around its powertrains and battery systems. They also share some patents openly to push industry adoption, but keep the most valuable ones proprietary.
They believe innovation should serve both the market and the planet.
Actionable Advice
- Invest in clean technologies—and protect them early.
- Consider opening up non-core patents to build goodwill and industry standards.
- File patents that align with upcoming regulations and environmental trends.
14. Microsoft filed approximately 1,900 U.S. patents in 2023
Microsoft’s Cloud-Focused IP
Microsoft’s recent patents focus heavily on AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and enterprise software.
They’ve evolved from desktop software to a cloud-first model, and their IP portfolio reflects that transformation.
Software is Still King
Their patents often cover algorithms, cloud architecture, and AI decision systems. Microsoft doesn’t just file tech—they file how tech supports people and organizations at scale.
Actionable Advice
- If you’re in software or SaaS, file patents around your key algorithms and architectures.
- Protect systems that scale across industries.
- File defensively—many software patents are to prevent lawsuits or trolls.
15. Panasonic filed over 1,800 U.S. patents in 2023
Panasonic’s Quiet Innovation
Panasonic focuses on smart homes, batteries, and energy solutions. Their patents often improve safety, battery life, and device interaction.
They’re big in B2B tech too—filing patents for automation, industrial sensors, and smart buildings.
Under-the-Hood IP
Panasonic protects the parts of tech most people don’t see but rely on. Their innovations are often embedded deep inside systems, making them critical for performance.
Actionable Advice
- Don’t ignore backend systems—they hold major IP value.
- File for the “invisible” innovations your business depends on.
- Think beyond user interface—focus on functionality and longevity.
16. Amazon filed more than 2,000 U.S. patents in 2023
Amazon’s Relentless Innovation
Amazon doesn’t just sell products—it reinvents how they’re delivered, stored, recommended, and even spoken to. In 2023, Amazon’s patents spanned cloud computing, robotics, drone delivery, AI, and logistics.
Their biggest strength? Obsession with customer convenience.
Patents That Solve Real Problems
Whether it’s Alexa’s voice understanding or warehouse automation, Amazon files patents that fix friction points. They prioritize customer experience, and every patent reflects that mindset.
They also test ideas in real environments before scaling. This makes their patents grounded in reality, not just theory.
Actionable Advice
- Identify pain points in your customer journey and solve them first.
- Protect even small technical tweaks that add major value.
- Test, refine, then patent—real-world use makes stronger IP.
17. Google (Alphabet) filed around 1,700 U.S. patents in 2023
Google’s AI-Centric Strategy
Google’s patents cover everything from search algorithms and AI models to autonomous vehicles and smart glasses. They aim to predict the future—and own the technology behind it.
Their key focus areas are AI infrastructure, natural language understanding, and digital health.
Innovation With Data
Google leverages its massive data ecosystem to create smarter, more personalized services. Many of their patents protect the backbone of services like Google Maps, Ads, and Search.
They also file heavily in moonshot areas via their R&D branch, X.
Actionable Advice
- Use data to guide innovation—then protect the resulting tech.
- File patents on infrastructure if you’re building platforms or services.
- Think ahead—protect the core of tomorrow’s big ideas today.
18. Meta filed over 1,400 U.S. patents in 2023
Meta’s Mixed Reality Mission
Meta (formerly Facebook) is betting big on the metaverse. Their 2023 patents heavily focused on AR/VR devices, gesture tracking, haptic feedback, and virtual environments.
They also invest in AI models and content moderation tools.
Merging Worlds
Meta’s vision is about merging physical and digital worlds. Their patents protect how people interact in virtual spaces—how they move, talk, buy, and work.
They’re building an immersive ecosystem where their IP plays a foundational role.
Actionable Advice
- If you’re in emerging tech, file patents on how users interact with your platforms.
- Protect experience layers—motion, touch, voice, and visual feedback.
- Stay user-centric even in advanced tech—it keeps the innovation grounded.
19. Siemens filed over 3,000 global patent applications in 2023
Siemens’ Industrial Smartness
Siemens is a global powerhouse in automation, electrification, and smart infrastructure. Their 2023 patents focused on smart factories, AI in industrial settings, and energy efficiency.
They lead in industrial IoT—using sensors and software to modernize manufacturing.
Practical, Scalable Innovation
Siemens patents have wide application across sectors. They focus on improving safety, lowering waste, and integrating AI into traditional systems.
This lets them stay ahead in mature markets by reinventing old systems with smart technology.
Actionable Advice
- Modernize existing systems—innovation isn’t just starting from scratch.
- File patents on how your product integrates with legacy infrastructure.
- Focus on efficiency—many clients value that over novelty.
20. Xiaomi filed 5,000+ global patent applications in 2023
Xiaomi’s Patent Explosion
Xiaomi isn’t just a phone company—they’re in wearables, smart homes, robotics, and even electric vehicles. Their aggressive IP filing shows how seriously they take global competitiveness.
In 2023, they filed patents across AI, smart appliances, and user interfaces.
Aggressive and Global
Xiaomi’s strategy involves quick launches and quick protection. They often file patents before products hit the market, ensuring coverage from day one.
Their international filings show ambition to expand beyond China.
Actionable Advice
- File early—don’t wait for product launch.
- Use IP to back global expansion.
- Protect user-facing features—they often drive customer loyalty.
21. ZTE filed over 6,000 patent applications worldwide in 2023
ZTE’s Focus on Connectivity
ZTE continues to be a major player in global telecom. In 2023, their patents centered on 5G, cloud networks, and communication protocols.
They’re not just following the trend—they’re shaping the rules of global networks.
Standard-Essential Patents
ZTE is deeply involved in setting tech standards. Many of their patents become mandatory for operating certain wireless networks, giving them leverage and licensing opportunities.
Actionable Advice
- Engage in standards development if you work in infrastructure or protocols.
- File patents that support global tech standards.
- Use IP to open new revenue streams—not just to block others.
22. Oppo filed around 4,000 global patent applications in 2023
Oppo’s Focused Tech Innovation
Oppo continues to surprise with innovations in mobile photography, fast charging, and foldable displays. Their patent filings in 2023 reflect that—heavily weighted toward mobile and wearable experiences.
They file fast and iterate even faster.
User Experience First
Oppo focuses on how people use their devices in real life. Many of their patents center on camera software, display usability, and device ergonomics.
Actionable Advice
- Focus on how your tech works in daily life—then protect those features.
- Don’t overcomplicate—practical innovation wins.
- File patents that improve comfort, speed, and convenience.
23. Philips filed over 2,500 global patent applications in 2023
Philips’ Health-Tech Evolution
Philips has transformed from an electronics brand to a leader in healthcare innovation. Their 2023 patents focus on medical imaging, diagnostic tools, and smart patient monitoring.
They aim to improve healthcare delivery with connected devices and AI.
Health Meets Tech
Philips files patents that turn complex medical processes into simple, efficient solutions. Their systems help doctors diagnose faster and patients recover better.
Actionable Advice
- If you’re in health or wellness, file patents around usability and compliance.
- Focus on simplicity—healthcare professionals value ease of use.
- Tie IP to patient outcomes, not just features.
24. Ericsson filed over 2,000 patents globally in 2023
Ericsson’s Telecom Backbone
Ericsson is one of the oldest players in telecom innovation. In 2023, they focused on 5G, private wireless networks, and edge computing.
Their patents are foundational—they power global mobile infrastructure.
Quiet But Critical
Ericsson patents don’t always make headlines, but they form the backbone of digital communication. Their IP allows them to license widely and shape industry norms.
Actionable Advice
- Look for tech that supports big systems—these often offer licensing potential.
- File strategically around infrastructure, not just end products.
- Understand the broader ecosystem where your product fits.
25. Fujitsu filed over 1,500 U.S. patents in 2023
Fujitsu’s Data-Driven Focus
Fujitsu has shifted focus to AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise data solutions. Their patents cover algorithmic efficiency, data privacy, and cloud integration.
They aim to make businesses smarter, faster, and more secure.
Innovation With Purpose
Fujitsu patents are rooted in solving enterprise pain points—how to store data securely, process it quickly, and protect it legally.
Actionable Advice
- Solve urgent customer problems first—then protect your solution.
- Use IP to reinforce trust, especially in security and data.
- Focus on systems, not just products.
26. Alibaba Group filed over 4,000 global patent applications in 2023
Alibaba’s Tech-Driven Commerce
Alibaba’s tech infrastructure supports millions of daily transactions. Their 2023 patents focus on AI-driven logistics, recommendation engines, and fintech.
They use patents to fuel faster e-commerce, safer payments, and better personalization.
Building Ecosystems
Alibaba doesn’t build products—they build entire digital ecosystems. Their IP ensures every layer—from user clicks to backend systems—is protected.
Actionable Advice
- If you run a platform, patent how your layers interact.
- Protect systems that support scale and trust.
- Treat each part of your tech stack as IP-worthy.
27. Hitachi filed approximately 1,300 U.S. patents in 2023
Hitachi’s Infrastructure-First IP
Hitachi works across rail, energy, and smart city infrastructure. Their 2023 patents involve safety systems, predictive maintenance, and energy optimization.
They’re not flashy—but they’re critical.
Deep Tech Meets Daily Life
Hitachi patents support the systems people rely on—subways, grids, hospitals. Their innovations focus on reliability, uptime, and safety.
Actionable Advice
- Find innovation in overlooked areas—reliability is valuable.
- File for safety and stability features—not just new tools.
- If your product keeps things running, protect it.
28. Lenovo filed over 2,000 global patent applications in 2023
Lenovo’s Balanced Innovation
Lenovo’s patents span consumer tech and enterprise systems. In 2023, they filed patents on flexible screens, cloud-device integration, and battery safety.
They balance flash with function.
Practical Progress
Lenovo’s patents often cover how devices adapt to people’s work and life habits. That adaptability keeps them competitive globally.
Actionable Advice
- File for adaptability—how your product fits into daily workflows.
- Don’t chase trends—improve usability instead.
- Protect features that help users stay productive.
29. General Electric (GE) filed over 1,000 U.S. patents in 2023
GE’s Industrial Innovation
GE focuses on energy, aviation, and medical devices. Their 2023 patents deal with renewable energy systems, jet engine efficiency, and MRI tech.
They file patents to boost performance and reliability.
Long-Term Payoff
GE invests in deep R&D with long product cycles. Their IP protects innovations that may take years to commercialize but dominate once they arrive.
Actionable Advice
- Plan for the long haul—big tech takes time.
- Protect core innovations, even if they won’t pay off immediately.
- File patents that improve ROI over product lifespan.
30. Tencent filed more than 3,000 global patent applications in 2023
Tencent’s Digital Dominance
Tencent’s IP covers gaming, social media, fintech, and AI. Their 2023 filings include real-time communication tools, content filtering systems, and cloud infrastructure.
They innovate across everything digital.
Diversified IP Strategy
Tencent files patents across many industries, but the theme is always the same: real-time interaction at scale.
Their IP supports fast, secure, and engaging digital experiences.
Actionable Advice
- If you offer real-time services, protect speed and stability.
- File patents that improve scale without hurting experience.
- Diversify your IP to match new verticals you enter.
Conclusion
Patents are more than legal shields. They’re signs of vision, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of progress. Across industries—from chipmakers and cloud giants to healthcare leaders and e-commerce titans—the companies filing the most patents each year aren’t just reacting to trends. They’re creating them.
