In oral proceedings a computer-generated slideshow cannot be used as a matter of right, but only with the permission of and at the discretion of the examining or opposition division or the Legal Division (T 1556/06), and provided that – in the case of oral proceedings on the EPO premises – the necessary equipment is available in the room in which the oral proceedings are held. Generally, screens are available in most meeting rooms; however, requests to provide further equipment such as projectors will be refused.

Care must be taken that presentations of computer-generated slideshows do not negatively impact the efficient conduct of oral proceedings (e.g. interruptions for the technical preparations for the presentation). Similar considerations apply to the use of other visual aids (e.g. flipcharts, pictures, screensharing).

8.5.1.1 Opposition proceedings (inter partes)

8.5.1.2 Examination proceedings (ex parte)