Channel Avatar

John Ferrell, Esq. @UCs7JvLt4bTCVQNqe8L1BbJA@youtube.com

1.2M subscribers - no pronouns :c

This Channel provides legal education and ideas for companie


Welcoem to posts!!

in the future - u will be able to do some more stuff here,,,!! like pat catgirl- i mean um yeah... for now u can only see others's posts :c

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 5 months ago

Two Years Worth of YouTube Subscribers Lost in One Day
YouTube is so unpredictable for Creators. It took me two years to earn my first 1,000 subscribers. Some months ago I published a video that I was sure was one of my best ever and it totally fell flat - like zero "Rotten Tomatoes" bad. I lost 800 subscribers from my channel in less than 12 hours after posting. Thank you to the million of the rest of you who mercifully did not watch that video. 😊 Anyway, I'm back in the studio tomorrow to try again; wishing you a beautiful weekend, -john

24 - 4

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 6 months ago

You Can Twiddle the Prompts, but You Still Don't Own the Content


Often, a sense of pride or accomplishment accompanies creating or producing something, whether that thing is building a house, writing an essay or painting a portrait. But the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is upending that feeling of pride in that while you may be prompting the machine, it is doing all the “creative” work. So who—or what—gets the credit for the output?

When using one of the publicly available chatbot-style AI platforms such as Chat GPT to generate a work of authorship, either text or an image, the copyright for the produced work is owned by neither you nor the AI platform. It has long been established that only humans can own copyrights. The same is largely true with AI-generated inventions and patents covering those inventions.

But what happens if you create a particularly clever AI prompt that leads to a beautiful work of art, literary masterpiece or an ingenious invention? Does this skill in prompt generation somehow confer greater rights to the creative output? No, since the authors of the AI chatbot itself can’t claim credit for the creative—if often highly unpredictable—outputs of their programs, so manipulating a set of input scripts doesn’t lead to greater rights for the results either.

But are the scripts themselves copyright protectable? Probably, and in two ways. The scripts are written sets of instructions which can be copyrighted. The output they produce is not subject to copyright, but the inputs can be protected by copyright—in a way similar to computer code—and once recorded in a tangible medium can be copyrighted. Also, unless the scripts themselves are in some way publicly discoverable or published, they would constitute trade secrets and could be licensed, sold or otherwise transferred.

Devising clever AI prompts to get the machines to perform at their best is becoming an increasingly critical and lucrative job. Just remember that whatever they produce isn’t really yours to claim.

12 - 4

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 6 months ago

US Pat. No. 221,855 (1879) Fire Escape - I love the shoes!

41 - 4

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 6 months ago

The 25 Greatest Inventions of the 21st Century (so far)

The first twenty-five years of this 21st century has seen incredible and groundbreaking inventions that have completely reshaped our lives. Here is my patent attorney list of the 25 most significant innovations of the century so far. Leave a comment if you have others that I left off.

1. Smartphones (2007)
The introduction of the iPhone in 2007 revolutionized the telecommunications and computing industries. Smartphones are not just communication devices; they are portable computers with access to the internet, apps, and numerous functionalities.

2. CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing (2012)
CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) is a groundbreaking technology in genetic engineering that allows scientists to precisely alter DNA sequences, opening new frontiers in medicine, agriculture, and biology.

3. Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies (2008)
Blockchain, the underlying technology behind cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, offers decentralized, transparent, and secure systems for managing digital transactions and data. Blockchain has the potential to transform industries ranging from finance to healthcare.

4. 3D Printing (Early 2000s)
Also known as additive manufacturing, 3D printing allows for the creation of three-dimensional objects by layering materials based on digital models. This technology is revolutionizing industries like manufacturing, healthcare (e.g., prosthetics), and construction.

5. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (Early 2000s onwards)
AI and machine learning have made significant strides in the 21st century, with applications in areas like natural language processing, robotics, healthcare diagnostics, autonomous vehicles, and personalized recommendations.

6. Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Tesla Model S (2012)
While electric vehicles existed before the 21st century, Tesla's Model S, launched in 2012, demonstrated the viability of high-performance, long-range electric vehicles. This development has driven significant growth in the EV industry.

7. Social Media Platforms (2000s onwards)
Platforms like Facebook (2004), Twitter (2006), and Instagram (2010) have transformed how people communicate, share information, and interact, significantly impacting culture, politics, and business.

8. Renewable Energy Advancements (2000s onwards)
Advances in solar power, wind turbines, and energy storage systems (such as Tesla’s Powerwall) have driven the global shift toward renewable energy sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and addressing climate change.

9. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
AR and VR technologies have expanded into various fields, including entertainment, education, and healthcare. Oculus Rift (2012) and Microsoft HoloLens (2016) are notable products in this domain.

10. GPS Navigation and Autonomous Vehicles (2000s onwards)
While GPS technology has been around since the late 20th century, the 21st century has seen widespread integration of GPS in consumer devices, including smartphones and cars. Autonomous vehicles, led by companies like Tesla and Waymo, are also making headway.

11. Quantum Computing (2000s onwards)
Quantum computing, though still in its early stages, promises to revolutionize computational power. Companies like IBM, Google, and D-Wave have made significant advancements in quantum processors.

12. Nanotechnology (2000s onwards)
Advances in nanotechnology have led to breakthroughs in materials science, medicine (e.g., targeted drug delivery), and electronics, enabling innovations at the molecular and atomic levels.

13. Streaming Services (2007 onwards)
Platforms like Netflix (streaming launched in 2007), Spotify, and YouTube have transformed the entertainment industry by shifting content delivery from physical media to online streaming.

14. Wearable Technology (2010s onwards)
Devices like the Fitbit (2009) and the Apple Watch (2015) have transformed health monitoring, fitness tracking, and personal communication, creating a new market for consumer electronics.

15. Reusable Rockets – SpaceX Falcon 9 (2010)
SpaceX revolutionized space exploration with its reusable rocket technology, dramatically reducing the cost of space travel and paving the way for future missions, including to Mars.

16. Personal Assistants – Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant (2011 onwards)
Voice-activated personal assistants have transformed human-computer interaction, enabling hands-free access to information, services, and smart home devices.

17. mRNA Vaccines (2020)
The development of mRNA vaccine technology, notably used in the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines, is a groundbreaking medical innovation. It represents a new era in vaccine development with potential applications beyond COVID-19.

18. Hyperloop (2013)
Proposed by Elon Musk, the Hyperloop concept uses pressurized tubes to transport pods at high speeds, potentially transforming transportation systems and reducing travel time between cities.

19. Biodegradable Plastics (2000s onwards)
The development of biodegradable and compostable plastics represents a crucial step in addressing global plastic waste and environmental pollution, advancing sustainability in packaging and consumer products.

20. Smart Home Devices (2010s onwards)
The rise of smart home devices, such as thermostats (Nest), security systems, and lighting, has enabled greater control over home environments through the Internet of Things (IoT), creating more energy-efficient and secure homes.

21. Biometric Authentication (2000s onwards)
The widespread adoption of biometric authentication, such as fingerprint recognition (popularized by Apple’s Touch ID in 2013) and facial recognition (Apple’s Face ID in 2017), has enhanced security in devices and services, revolutionizing identity verification.

22. Hydrogen Fuel Cells (2000s onwards)
Hydrogen fuel cells, which convert hydrogen into electricity, have gained prominence as a clean energy source for vehicles and industrial applications, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

23. Graphene (2004)
Discovered in 2004, graphene is a one-atom-thick layer of carbon atoms with extraordinary strength, flexibility, and conductivity. It holds great promise in electronics, materials science, and energy storage.

24. Smart Glasses (2010s onwards)
Smart glasses, like Google Glass (2013) and Microsoft's HoloLens (2016), combine wearable technology with augmented reality, enabling new applications in healthcare, industrial training, and remote collaboration.

25. Vertical Farming (2000s onwards)
Vertical farming involves growing crops in stacked layers, often using controlled environments and hydroponic or aeroponic systems. This innovation allows for efficient food production in urban settings with less water and land.

And here are a few inventions that I include as honorable mentions:

Artificial Organs (2000s onwards)
Breakthroughs in bioengineering have led to the development of artificial organs, such as synthetic lungs, hearts, and kidneys. These advancements are critical for transplant medicine and addressing organ shortages.

DNA Ancestry Kits (2000s onwards)
My List of the 25 Greatest Inventions of the 21st Century (so far)

The first twenty-five years of this 21st century has seen incredible and groundbreaking inventions that have completely reshaped our lives. Here is my patent attorney list 25 of the most significant innovations so far. Leave a comment if you have others that should be on the list.

Wireless Charging (2009 onwards)
Wireless charging, first seen in consumer products like the Palm Pre (2009) and later adopted by smartphones (e.g., Apple's iPhone in 2017), eliminates the need for physical connectors and cables, making device charging more convenient.

Synthetic Meat (2013 onwards)
Lab-grown meat (cultured or synthetic meat) represents a breakthrough in sustainable food production, offering an alternative to traditional livestock farming. Companies like Memphis Meats and Beyond Meat have led developments in this area.

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) (2000s onwards)
BCIs enable direct communication between the brain and external devices, offering significant potential for medical applications such as assisting individuals with disabilities, neuroprosthetics, and cognitive enhancement. Notable companies like Neuralink (founded by Elon Musk in 2016) are advancing this field.

15 - 0

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 6 months ago

Race to the Patent Office



The Indianapolis 500, The Amazing Race on TV and the Kentucky Derby are all famous races, but the contest most important to inventors may be the race to the patent office. In the world of innovation, protecting your ideas is critical, and understanding the patent system is key. In 2013, the U.S. Patent Office adopted a first-to-file system, which means that the rights to a patent are granted to the first person to file an application at the patent office.


This shift from the old first-to-invent system simplifies the process; reducing disputes over who invented what first, known as interference proceedings; and is more in line with international standards. With first-to-file, timing is everything. If two inventors come up with the same idea independently, the one who files their patent application first will secure the rights to that invention, known as priority. Inventors must be strategic in planning their patent filings, balancing the tensions of having sufficiently completed inventions with the importance of filing quickly, before others beat them with an earlier patent filing. To help with this race to the patent office, provisional patent applications may allow you to secure a filing date on the basics of the invention while giving additional time to refine your invention or explore alternative embodiments before filing a full patent application.


While the first-to-file system encourages innovation by providing clarity and efficiency, it also places a premium on being proactive. For inventors, understanding this system can make all the difference in protecting your creations and securing a competitive edge in the marketplace. Your invention is the most important thing, but a good pair of running shoes may be just as key when heading to the patent office.


Summary
The U.S. uses a first-to-file patent system, granting rights to the first applicant, simplifying disputes over invention claims. But timing is crucial, and inventors must file promptly. Provisional patent applications can offer initial protection while refining your ideas. Understanding this system is vital for safeguarding innovations and gaining a competitive advantage.

21 - 1

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 7 months ago

Drunk Patent Examiner, Bribery and the Invention of the Telephone

Alexander Bell v. Elisha Gray is a super-interesting story of two ambitious, competing inventors who both filed patents for the telephone on Valentine's Day morning, 1876. The story is full of conspiracy, bribery and even a drunken patent examiner. If you have ever felt your patent application was snake-bit, you can humor yourself with this bit of insane inventor history.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elisha_Gray_and_Alexander_Be…

18 - 0

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 7 months ago

Deepfake AI Porn

Hi everyone! I'm in the law library this week diving into some serious research on a topic that’s been making recent waves—deepfake AI porn. This upcoming video is planned to explore the legal, ethical, and social issues surrounding the use of AI to create fake, explicit videos of real people without their consent. This topic has taken on even greater significance as we enter election season.

I'll be breaking down the laws, how they protect victims, and the potential criminal penalties for those involved in creating or sharing this content. Stay tuned—this is a topic everyone should know about! 🎥

Drop your thoughts or questions below, and I’ll try to address them in the video. Stand by! 😊

11 - 0

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 7 months ago

Report a Crime - Get Paid Half

Did you know there is a U.S. federal law (19 U.S.C. §1619) that lets you collect up to half of any fines, penalties or forfeitures as a reward for providing information on smuggling or customs violations? Some rewards have been for millions of dollars, with one case resulting in the tipster receiving a part of the $42 million settlement.


The Moiety Statute dates back centuries to when customs duties were a major source of government income and smuggling was a common way to avoid paying these taxes. These days, to claim a Moiety reward, there is a specific process that must be followed, including gathering evidence, submitting a report to the government (you may request confidentiality) and preparing a claim for the reward after the investigation is completed. Note that any accusations must be accurate, truthful and in good faith and be aware that it is often a slow process to collect.


But if you think your co-worker is selling fake watches online at his desk instead of working or that your neighbor is keeping you up with trucks delivering counterfeit goods in the middle of the night, you can become a crime fighter exposing bad acts, keeping people honest and preserving the health of the legal system. If you have solid evidence and a genuine case, the Moiety Statute might just turn your frustration into a financial reward. Contact your local FBI field office, nearest Customs and Border Protection office or discuss the matter with an attorney knowledgeable in these matters.


Summary
Under the Moiety Statute, you can earn up to half of fines or penalties from reporting smuggling or customs violations. This centuries-old law allows tipsters to receive a reward if their information leads to successful investigations. As long as you follow the process and your claims are truthful and accurate, you may be able to earn a significant financial reward while fighting crime.

9 - 0

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 7 months ago

Thank you for being part of our Community. One Million. This just arrived today.

35 - 9

John Ferrell, Esq.
Posted 7 months ago

Is it Legal to Take Street Photos of People and Post on Social Media?

In the U.S., snapping photos in public spaces and sharing them on social media is generally fair game! Whether you're showcasing your photography skills or sharing a slice of life with your followers, you’re usually in the clear.

However, things get a bit trickier when it comes to famous folks. In many states, like California, using photos of celebrities for commercial purposes (think ads or merch) can land you in hot water.

Of course, there are some commonsense limits to keep in mind. Certain types of content, like anything involving child exploitation or hate speech, are strictly off-limits, no matter where you are. And, believe it or not, some places are just too sensitive for photos—think military bases or high-security areas like the mysterious Area 51.

Lastly, while it might be legal to photograph people in public, it’s always a good idea to think twice before posting. Out of respect for others, try to avoid sharing images of those who might be in a vulnerable situation, like someone who’s injured, ill, or otherwise having a tough day. A little compassion goes a long way!

10 - 3