You can apply for an invention patent by organizing the technologies involved in the APP into method steps in the process of data processing and interaction. APP itself is software, and it cannot protect the product itself through patents like equipment or mechanical devices with actual shapes and structures. APP can't apply for utility model, and the UI interface of app can't be protected by design before. Now the policy has changed and opinions are being sought. Maybe in the future. It is entirely possible before the APP is made. Patents, even product inventions, don't need actual products, just ideas. On the contrary, if you make a product and apply again, you may not be able to apply, which will affect its novelty and will not be authorized. Patent application, as soon as possible, not too late, the application date is very important. Paragraph 2 of Article 9 of the Patent Law stipulates that if two or more applicants apply for a patent for the same invention-creation, the patent right shall be granted to the applicant who first applied for a patent for invention or utility model, and documents such as the request, specification, patent claim, abstract of specification and necessary drawings shall be submitted. To apply for a patent for design, a request, a design picture or photograph, a brief description and other documents shall be submitted. Patent application documents can be written by the applicant himself or by a patent agent.