Which type of intellectual property protection lasts for 25 years when granted?

The correct answer is that registered design protection lasts for 25 years when granted. A registered design protects the appearance of a product, including its shape, configuration, and ornamentation, allowing the owner exclusive rights to use it and prevent others from using a similar design without permission.

This type of protection is particularly relevant in industries where the aesthetic aspects of a product play a significant role, such as fashion or furniture design. The duration of 25 years offers a substantial period for the rights holder to capitalize on their design in the marketplace.

In contrast, while design rights and trademarks may offer protection for varying periods, the specific timeframe of 25 years is unique to registered designs. Copyright, while it provides a longer duration of protection (life of the author plus 70 years in many jurisdictions), does not apply to the same aspects of intellectual property as registered designs. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for appreciating how different forms of intellectual property serve various needs in protecting creative works and innovations.