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Ask HN: Would you use a fast/cheap "prior art" service instead of a patent?

shaheeniquebal Thursday, November 27, 2025

We’re exploring a tech-focused IP platform that helps startups publish fast, affordable “prior art” disclosures. The goal is to protect inventions without the cost or delay of patents, especially in this AI age where things move quickly.

The core proposition is: for a few hundred dollars, you get a timestamped, public disclosure that blocks others from patenting your idea.

We're trying to validate if this is truly valuable for early-stage founders.

Would you consider this a valid alternative to a low-value patent?

What would make you trust a platform offering this?

Is the $250-$500 price point compelling?

We also have a completely anonymous 60-second survey if you prefer that format: https://forms.gle/KSSWGc68RkNT9G8n6

We'll share a summary of the results here afterward. All perspectives are appreciated.

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