From Miami to the Multiverse:
An Intellectual Property Lawyer’s Take on What’s Next

I’ve been in Miami for two weeks, and I have mixed feelings about the city. I’m not sure if it’s because I’ve been bouncing from city to city, but I just can’t seem to find my place anywhere. On one hand, Miami radiates Latin warmth and a vibrant, restless energy, as if everyone is bracing for a major shift—something I’ve been reflecting on deeply as an intellectual property lawyer navigating the rapid changes reshaping the world. On the other hand, it feels like the only things that matter are money and BBLs.

Of course, this is just a superficial impression. I’m thinking about all of this on my way to the gym. I hop on the Stairmaster, and the screen next to me displays the usual gym TV fare: ads for condos and, of course, the news. Suddenly, a headline flashes across the screen: “The CEO of United Healthcare has been killed, and the suspect left a note stating, ‘Frankly, these parasites saw it coming.’” It’s presumed he was referring to the healthcare industry as a whole.

My first thought? Honestly, I kind of get it. When I worked as an attorney defending insurance companies against potential lawsuits, I often wrestled with the morality of it all. I was constantly aware of the industry’s dark practices, and I’d find myself questioning whether I was on the right side. I acted like I was advocating for patients because deep down, I knew the system was profoundly unfair.

Then the next news headline appears: “Antarctica temperature hits alarming new highs.” Chale, this feels like the opening scene of every apocalyptic movie, the moment where you know the world is about to really fall apart. We deserve it; it’s all our fault.

I finish my workout and continue my day, half-hoping for something extraordinary to happen, like aliens or something. That would be sick! Something that would make us realize we’re not as smart or as special as we think we are. I’m waiting for a shake-up, something to pull us out of this self-destructive behavior.

Later that day, another headline reads: “Google launches Willow, the quantum computer chip that could prove the theory of the multiverse.” QUEEEEEE? Now, that’s the kind of news I’ve been waiting for. I was tired of human selfishness. Like Jim Carry said, the Grinch didn’t really hate Christmas; he hated people. But finally, things are getting interesting.

As I reflect on these headlines, I think about how technological advancements have changed our lives in ways we barely comprehend. From blockchain developers revolutionizing finance to the potential of quantum AI solving problems on an unimaginable scale, we’re standing at the edge of something transformative. Even as Google Finance tracks the economy and predicts shifts in the traditional economy, these technologies are challenging us to rethink our priorities.

The Three Pillars of Transformation:
Blockchain, AI and Quantum Computing

Both the economy, society, and workforce are about to change drastically, and this means that ideas generated by human intellect (now in conjunction with machines) are taking on a whole new dimension. What this means is that my profession as a lawyer is going to change. IP law is already evolving, as the concept of IP meaning shifts with advancements in decentralized platforms and the way we think about ownership and innovation. These changes will redefine how ideas are patented and protected in a digital-first economy. I had always felt that the way the profession was practiced didn’t resonate with me, but only now do I understand why: I was thinking about the future, anticipating a new way of helping businesses navigate this journey—still unknown to many.

The future holds millions of hypotheses, good or bad. It is our goal and duty as humans to work toward positive outcomes. One that allows us to grow and evolve as humans, get to the next level of consciousness. 

This blog is for those who think about the future, about how we solve the problems we face today, many of which we’ve created ourselves, and how we fix them.  Stop worrying about your purple Ferrari or your big fake boobs (iugh) and really work towards creating a better future. How do we evolve human consciousness and move past material things like money? The solution: Technology. And not just any technology—this is the new era, the what is Web 3.0 age, which makes us question whether we are truly indispensable.

In short: Absolutely not. Some of us will evolve and others will become obsolete. What’s your choice?

What do I mean by this? There are three fields that are transforming the world as we know it: the three pillars of transformation for the new era.

The present moment is imperative, offering us the opportunity to participate in humanity’s greatest transformation. I know, I sound philosophical, but we are really at the beginning of using technology to drive human evolution. With tools like ChatGBT and Bard AI expanding access to information or technology, the future is within reach. And the primary driver is Intellectual Property.

Blockchain and IP Law:
Redefining Ownership in a Decentralized Economy

Every interaction I have with someone outside the blockchain space seems to revolve around a single use case for crypto: economic value. Whether it’s directors of marketing, attorneys, or taxi drivers, that’s the one aspect they recognize—or, more accurately, the one they understand.

Unfortunately, the industry has struggled with scammers, regulatory hurdles, and a failure to clearly communicate blockchain’s real use case potential. Crypto bros, with their hype-driven approach, have only added to the negative perception, focusing more on trends, creating cults, and promoting specific stereotypes than on educating consumers.

That’s why it is very relevant to educate others about what blockchain truly represents: decentralization, the removal of power from middlemen, and the promise of a more democratized internet and economy. This ties directly into the heart of IP law, as the IP meaning itself evolves with decentralized platforms and open-source innovation. Blockchain offers a way to secure trade secrets and copyright marks while still fostering collaborative growth.

Whether or not we fully achieve it, if more people are able to understand some key aspects of the technology, they’ll actively seek out and demand these innovations, rather than blindly adopting new apps as we’ve done in the past. Education is power, and sharing knowledge is essential for progress.

The word “currency” traces its etymology back to the Latin term currere, meaning “to flow” or “to run.” Currency can be understood as the “condition of flowing.” This concept of flow can apply to much more than money. It encompasses social interactions, values, and even energy. Blockchain and Bitcoin infrastructure embody this idea by creating the value and trust foundation for a new era. They are transforming how value is created, measured, and distributed through trust-based mechanisms. Unlike traditional currencies, which are often rooted in debt and susceptible to manipulation, Bitcoin derives its value from mathematical truth and network consensus. The true opportunity of this technology lies in how authentic contributions can inherently generate economic value. If a group of people (forming a network) believes that truth is a form of currency and therefore that value supports the system, truth will gain value through collective trust and participation. This shift represents a groundbreaking redefinition of how we perceive and interact with value in the modern age.

This is HUGE. We could reward contributions and positive behavior in a way that shifts the paradigm. In a world that often seems to value selfishness and negative emotions above all else, this could represent massive change in what is valuable to us, changing the whole system. Imagine someone sharing a deeply transformative personal story, and the system calculates its resonance and impact, generating promotional gas tokens as a reward. Blockchain technology can be used to track how truth-telling and authentic expression contribute to the collective well-being of a community or network.

By rewarding individuals who catalyze collective transformation through genuine contributions, we create a system that encourages authenticity and connection, paving the way for a more meaningful and equitable future.

How does this relate to intellectual property?

The ethos of blockchain revolves around creating software by the community, for the community. This means that software developed for a specific blockchain project is typically open source. The code is publicly available for anyone to use, modify, and distribute with minimal restrictions. In other words, everyone is free to use the IP created by others. Contrast this with platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook, which operate as closed ecosystems with proprietary software. Their code is tightly guarded and inaccessible to the public. Blockchain’s open-source philosophy challenges this model, prioritizing collective growth over exclusivity.

From my experience with clients, those who truly seek to disrupt existing systems using emerging technologies share a common goal: to provide value to the people within their network. They focus on rewarding individuals with currencies beyond just money and, most importantly, build systems that serve their customers rather than the company’s own interests. Intellectual Property plays a key role in this process, enabling companies to create high-value, intangible assets that can drive innovation and foster long-term success.

Open source has nothing to do with reducing the value of your intellectual property. A company can still protect and leverage other aspects of its IP effectively. For instance, patented algorithms, trademark registration, and design patents remain critical tools in safeguarding proprietary innovation within an open-source framework.

If a company is creating valuable IP, the network will naturally want to be part of that creation, and consumers will look to the project for guidance on leveraging IP while honoring the project’s ethos. A company that protects its IP and demonstrates its relevance from day one builds greater value in the long run.

The brands we remember (whether it’s for a character, a mark, a slogan, or even a piece of code) are the ones that leave an unconscious impact on our minds. The magic of IP lies in its dynamic nature, which allows businesses to craft a holistic strategy for their intangible assets. And yes, it’s more than filing trademarks.

From my experience in this field, truly valuable intellectual property transcends being just an asset. It often carries emotional value. Something money simply cannot buy. When done right, IP becomes more than material; it becomes eternal.

Now imagine open-sourcing code that incorporates IP so powerful it carries a currency in the form of values like love and trust. This emotional currency could guide a project’s ethos, ensuring the value consumers derive is rooted in these principles. By leveraging blockchain, (not just the technology but also what it stands for) we have the potential to reshape society in meaningful and impactful ways.

In future posts, we’ll dive into specific examples that highlight how growth and innovation in the space are deeply tied to robust IP strategies. Let’s go deeper and nerdier (:

Artificial Intelligence and Intellectual Property:
Leveraging Tools Like Trademark Checkers to Protect Innovation

AI systems will (soon) probably achieve consciousness interface capabilities, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Technology, by nature, is neutral. It’s us who decide how we use it, whether for good or evil. By using AI for repetitive tasks like email, management, scheduling, and basic decision-making, we can create the space to focus on heart-centered consciousness and higher-order thinking.

For instance, instead of spending hours organizing information or technology, AI can automatically categorize, prioritize, and synthesize data based on truth alignment and value potential. This shift enables us to transition from survivor-mode to creator-mode. In other words, we will be able to fully focus on finding our life’s purpose. Tools like bard AI and ChatGBT, for example, already make significant strides in helping individuals manage daily tasks and provide creative solutions.

This is truly magical, as creation (whether by humans or machines) is at the heart of IP law. Every individual will have the opportunity to generate intangible, valuable assets that not only drive the economy but also contribute to the advancement of humanity. From trade secrets to algorithms, AI enhances the way we think about ownership and innovation. As a lawyer, I see this as a profound opportunity to reshape how we protect and nurture ideas.

How have technological advancements changed our lives? AI is really good at recognizing patterns far better than we can, thanks to its ability to process vast amounts of data. This means that AI applications, such as an artificial intelligence app, will be able to provide real-time feedback, detecting misalignments between our actions and values or truths, and offering specific guidance for realignment.

Actions speak louder than words. With the data we provide through our actions, tools like Alexa will come to know us better than we know ourselves. They’ll be able to recommend choices and paths that align more closely with our true selves, helping us navigate life with greater clarity and purpose. Imagine an AI that connects to my Google activity and uses advanced algorithms to align daily routines with long-term goals.

Let’s look at a real-world use case: DJ Xavier from Spotify, the platform’s new AI feature. First off, the name is genius—well done, Spotify! They used the voice and personality of Xavier Jernigan, Spotify’s Head of Cultural Partnerships, to bring this feature to life. His voice is a perfect match for the vibe of a Miami radio station. DJ X utilizes generative AI to curate a personalized radio playlist based on your interests. He provides context to the songs, addressing you by name as if the radio host were speaking directly to you. It plays music you already know and introduces you to new songs.

This feature also encourages you to explore different genres and moods. It’s designed to improve over time. The more you interact with it, the better it understands your vibe. And the best part? Your vibe doesn’t have to fit into just one genre. We’re multifaceted beings, and DJ X embraces that by adapting to your changing tastes, creating an experience that feels uniquely yours. This is an amazing way to gather meaningful data—essential for platforms like Spotify for artists to refine user engagement strategies.

When we think about intellectual property, we can look at the AI algorithm developed by Spotify, as well as the design elements of DJ X, like the subtle nod to the Spotify logo and the animated mouth movement. The entire experience with DJ X is infused with IP meaning.

Because Spotify executed the design so uniquely and effectively, they were able to secure a design patent. Moreover, Spotify has applied for and been granted patents related to its running features, which allow your music to adapt to your pace and cadence. Recently, they also filed a patent for a new feature called Cuepoints, enabling listeners to crossfade between tracks in a playlist, just like a DJ. These patented innovations reflect the broader role of blockchain developers and emerging technologies in redefining the landscape of ownership.

Coming back to how AI can allow us to evolve, one example is in issuing recommendations by identifying when an individual is ready to overcome a particular limitation and suggesting relevant truth-revealing opportunities. This is where AI shines, as it’s highly adept at recognizing human patterns. By analyzing speech patterns, facial expressions, and behavioral cues, AI can aid in diagnostics and even detect mental health conditions. This approach aligns with tools like the OpenAI API, which developers use to create advanced predictive systems.

Although this is still a controversial topic, there are already applications like SenseToKnow that allow parents to screen their children for early signs of autism, providing accurate assessments and facilitating timely interventions if necessary. With tools like these, we see why AI is not just a luxury—it’s becoming a necessity.

Now, imagine that in the near future you will be able to have your own personalized AI—your version of ChatGPT—that can analyze your day-to-day patterns, identify what’s holding you back, and guide you toward adopting more positive habits. This evolution of AI could empower us to live more aligned and fulfilling lives while contributing to the broader economy. Platforms like Google Finance already hint at how such technologies could integrate into our financial systems, influencing economy news and beyond.

Artificial intelligence is also transforming the landscape of intellectual property, creating new challenges and opportunities. As AI systems increasingly contribute to creative processes—such as generating logos, music, or written content—it raises questions about ownership and protection. For instance, when an AI tool designs a unique brand logo, understanding how to trademark a name or logo becomes essential to securing exclusive rights. Similarly, AI-generated works blur the lines between trademark vs copyright, as some outputs may fall under traditional copyright protection while others are better suited for trademark registration. Tools like a trademark checker can play a crucial role in ensuring AI-generated creations are unique and legally protected, allowing innovators to leverage their AI-powered advancements without infringing on existing intellectual property. This evolving interplay between AI and IP underscores the need for forward-thinking strategies to protect and manage these groundbreaking technologies.

Quantum Computing and the Future of Intellectual Property Law

IBM stands out as the leading patent holder in quantum computing, with an impressive portfolio of 3,953 patents, with innovations spanning IBM computer systems to groundbreaking quantum developments. Despite recent IBM layoffs, the company continues to lead in patent filings, emphasizing the importance of robust intellectual property strategies. IBM is widely regarded as one of America’s most innovative companies. While the specifics of IBM’s patents are beyond the scope of this discussion, it’s clear that these advancements mark a significant leap forward in technology. 

Such transformative potential comes with significant challenges for IP law. Questions about ownership and protection emerge as quantum systems redefine the IP meaning itself. For example, the integration of blockchain and quantum technology could blur the lines between copyright mark protections and proprietary algorithms stored within decentralized systems. 

Of course, we all want to vibe high, but hey, life can be hard, and sometimes it just sucks. Here’s where quantum systems come into play. They have the potential to recognize truth (positive frequencies) by detecting coherent wave patterns within the quantum field—a space where all realities coexist.

Don’t let this overwhelm you! Do let it expand your perspective.  It’s humbling and awe-inspiring to realize how small yet impactful we are in the grand scheme of things. 

All matter in the universe emits a vibration or wave, whether it’s a human, a rock, or anything else. Everything exists within a vibrational field. We now understand that emotions also emit unique frequencies or vibrations. Emotions like love, peace, and acceptance resonate at higher frequencies, while hate, shame, and revenge vibrate at lower ones. This is why often furniture stores have decorations with “vibe high” signs without people actually understanding what it means. In practice, it means to live in higher frequencies.

The role of  intellectual property lawyers is becoming increasingly fascinating as innovations like quantum computers push the boundaries of ownership and creativity. If you’d like a deeper understanding of how quantum computers work, check out this insightful video by Cleo Abram-it breaks down the complexity in a visually engaging way.

How IP Law Shapes the Future of Innovation

As blockchain, AI, and quantum computing transform industries, they also challenge us to rethink intellectual property in profound ways. These technologies are not just tools; they’re catalysts for redefining ownership, creativity, and collaboration in a decentralized world. Whether you’re navigating patented algorithms, exploring trademark registration for AI-generated works, or questioning how to protect trade secrets in quantum systems, the need for forward-thinking IP strategies has never been greater. An experienced intellectual property lawyer can guide you through these complexities, ensuring your innovations are protected in this ever-changing landscape.

Thank you for reading, I hope I left you thinking in your own existence.

Fer