👉 A patent weapon refers to the strategic use of existing patents to block competitors from innovating or commercializing new technologies, effectively stifling market competition. Companies may acquire or license patents that cover critical technologies, then use these patents to enforce their rights through litigation, licensing agreements, or other legal actions against potential infringers. This tactic can prevent rivals from entering the market or developing similar products, giving the patent holder significant market power and control. While patents are designed to incentivize innovation by granting inventors exclusive rights, patent weapons can be seen as anti-competitive if they are overly broad or used to unfairly restrict competition.
