Feel the Beat of Innovation: Exploring Music Tech IP with Iain Russell of Russell IP

Music is more than just rhythm and melody – it’s deeply intertwined with invention. From early mechanical instruments to today’s AI-generated soundscapes, music and technology have evolved hand in hand. At the heart of this progress lies intellectual property (IP), helping shape the soundtrack of the future.

This World IP Day, PatWorld spoke with Iain Russell, UK and European patent attorney and founder of Russell IP, about the evolving role of patents in music technology – and what it really means to feel the beat of IP.

From Stage to Strategy

Iain Russell brings a unique perspective, blending years of patent law experience with a lifelong love of music. He’s also the founder of DefibFest, a music-driven initiative raising money for public defibrillators. “Music’s always been there,” he says. “It’s my passion, alongside patents.”

His dual background means he understands both the technical and creative aspects of innovation, making him particularly well-placed to support UK-based music tech entrepreneurs.

Tracking Music Tech Patent Trends

PatWorld recently analysed 40 years of patent activity in the music tech space. Despite its niche focus, music technology has consistently represented around 1% of global filings – a notable figure given the breadth of patentable industries.

“That might sound small,” Iain explains, “but across such a wide range of sectors, it’s significant that music tech holds its place. It’s alive and well.”

While much innovation continues around instruments and hardware, software (like DAW plugins) and emerging technologies such as generative AI are now playing an increasing role.

Unexpected Players in Music Tech Patents

One interesting finding was the presence of companies not traditionally associated with music – firms focused on UX design, voice recognition or AI platforms – among top UK-based filers.

“Music tech bleeds into other areas,” says Iain. “Some innovations get classified under music, even if that’s not their core focus. Start-ups need to know who’s operating in their space – directly or indirectly – to develop an effective IP strategy.”

Patent Success Rates – Music vs Finance

Another standout insight from the data was the higher grant rate of music-related software patents in the UK compared to financial software.

Why the difference? “Music tech often processes real-world signals like audio, which is seen as more ‘technical’ in UK patent law,” Iain explains. “Financial software can be viewed as more abstract, and that makes it harder to patent.”

The message for inventors: music tech is a favourable space for patenting both hardware and software innovations.

Think Global – Even When Local

Patent filing in music technology is geographically diverse, with activity from China, the US, Japan, Europe and South Korea. For UK companies, this raises key strategic considerations.

“Even if you’re selling locally, you need to think internationally,” Iain advises. “Your IP could be licensed or sold abroad – so start planning early.”

AI, MIDI, and the Future of Music Creation

Iain has long been fascinated by how technology reshapes music, from basic MIDI files to AI-powered composition.

“With a few tools, I can create an entire track – guitar, vocals, drums – from my home. That was unthinkable 25 years ago. Patents help make this creativity possible by protecting the tech behind it.”

As AI continues to redefine what it means to be a musician, understanding the IP landscape becomes even more critical.

Advice for Music-Tech Start-ups

Iain shares key advice for early-stage innovators:

– Understand your full IP toolkit: patents, trade secrets, trademarks, designs and copyright all matter. – Do your research: run novelty searches and competitor analysis to boost your chances of success. – Find expert support: work with professionals who understand both music and technology.

“Even with something as familiar as guitars,” Iain adds, “you’ll find thousands of patents – covering pickups, bridges, strings and more.”

Celebrating Innovation in Every Note

World IP Day is a reminder that innovation underpins every beat, chord and chorus. It’s there in the apps, amps, algorithms and instruments. Thanks to experts like Iain Russell, music tech inventors have the tools they need to protect their creations.

About Russell IP

Founded by Iain Russell, Russell IP supports technology innovators with clear, commercially minded patent advice. Iain is both a UK and European patent attorney and a passionate musician. Visit www.russellip.com or connect with Iain on LinkedIn.

About DefibFest

DefibFest is a not-for-profit live music event raising funds for public defibrillators. Look out for the next event in London in October 2025.

Behind the Scenes at PatWorld

This article was made possible through the expertise of Iain Russell and data insights from Casey Higgon, IP Manager at PatWorld. At PatWorld, we equip attorneys and in-house IP teams with intuitive patent search tools, expert training, and strategic support to help uncover competitive trends and enhance IP strategies.

To learn how PatWorld can support your practice, contact us at mail@patworld.com.

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