The IP Lounge: CIPA 2026 president outlines UPC hopes

Simon Wright explains why the UK should embrace the possibility of rejoining the UPC, and reveals how CIPA is reacting to this month’s historic Emotional Perception AI case at the UK Supreme Court. In the latest episode, we are joined by Simon Wright, the 2026 president of the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys.Wright, who became president in January, shares what he has been up to in his first two months and outlines his priorities for the year.Chief on his agenda is maximising UK attorneys’ use of the Unified Patent Court. The UK, he argues, should explore whether there is an appetite for rejoining the system. He says CIPA is well placed to help in this regard. We explore how he became involved with the association and other main themes for 2026, including navigating the potential opportunities arising from the UK Supreme Court’s ruling in the Emotional Perception AI case.We also discuss Wright’s passion for engaging with SMEs.