WATCH: Reading between the lines—claim interpretation at the EPO post-G1/24

Stephen Garner, Partner and UK & European Patent Attorney at Mathys & Squire, and Philippa Griffin, UK & European Patent Attorney at Mathys & Squire, examine the evolving landscape of claim interpretation at the European Patent Office.The speakers analyse the practical impact of the Enlarged Board’s decision that the description and drawings “shall always be consulted” when assessing patentability. Through a review of recent examples, they demonstrate how the Boards have begun to reinterpret claim terms—both broadly and narrowly—based on the accompanying description.The session translates these rulings into actionable advice, considering how practitioners must adjust their drafting, prosecution, and opposition strategies to navigate this refined approach to claim construction.