The USPTO’s programme for expedited examination of design applications under 37 CFR 1(155) (often referred to as the design ‘rocket docket’), which was suspended earlier this year, was formally cancelled in an amended federal rule announced on 14 August 2025. The rocket docket aimed to enable patent applicants to significantly speed up examination of a design application. Specifically, it said there had been a surge in the number of requests for expedited design examinations, which negatively impacted pendency of all design applications. For example, unlike in utility patent applications, the accelerated examination programme remains in effect for design patent applications. Thus, while the rocket docket may be grounded, other options survive for rapidly launching design patent applications.