Canon Inc. has announced it has ranked third in the number of United States patents awarded in 2021. Canon garnered 3,022 U.S. patents according to the latest ranking of preliminary patent results issued by IFI CLAIMS Patent Services, becoming the only company in the world to earn a top-five ranking for number of patents granted for the 36th straight year. Canon also finished first in U.S. patents granted among Japanese companies for the 17th consecutive year.

"Companies rise and fall in our annual patent ranking, but Canon remains a steadfast leader," said Mike Baycroft, CEO, IFI CLAIMS Patent Services. "The company entered our top-10 U.S. patent rankings in 1983 and has been there ever since. These results no doubt reflect its focus on continuous innovation."

Canon values obtaining patents as it actively promotes the globalization of its business. The company promotes the acquisition and utilization of intellectual property rights, which it uses to maintain a robust patent portfolio. Securing patents in the United States, with its many high-tech companies and large market scale, remains a key component in the plan for developing strong technological alliances.

"To help meet our customers' evolving needs, we will continue to explore new areas and future opportunities for innovation," said Seymour Liebman, executive vice president, chief administrative officer and general counsel, Canon U.S.A. Inc., and senior managing executive officer, Canon Inc. "Canon is proud to once again finish as a top-three patent holder and continue to demonstrate our commitment to delivering innovative ideas and solutions that meet market and customer demands."

Canon aims to make great strides in its four new businesses of commercial printing, network cameras, and medical and industrial equipment. In addition, the company is working to create new business in the fields of next-generation imaging, health care and smart mobility.