Brightedge Techs., Inc. v. Searchmetrics, GMBH.

On March 4, 2014, Plaintiff BrightEdge Technologies, Inc. ("BrightEdge") brought this patent infringement action against Defendants Searchmetrics, GmbH. and Searchmetrics, Inc. (collectively, "Searchmetrics"). See Dkt. No. 1. The operative complaint asserts infringement of United States Patent Nos. 8,135,706 ("the '706 Patent"), 8,478,700 ("the '700 Patent"), 8,478,746 ("the '746 Patent"), 8,577,863 ("the '863 Patent"), and 8,671,089 ("the '089 Patent") (collectively, "the Asserted Patents"). Dkt. No. 154 ("Compl.") ¶ 5. The Asserted Patents relate to search engine optimization ("SEO"), a process by which an entity can enhance its online presence. See id.

On October 18, 2017, Defendants moved for judgment on the pleadings, asserting lack of patent-eligible subject matter under 35 U.S.C. § 101 . Dkt. No. 173 ("Mot."). On November 8, 2017, Plaintiff responded. Dkt. No. 183 ("Opp."). Defendants replied on November 20, 2017. Dkt. No. 187 ("Reply"). The Court held a hearing on December 14, 2017. See Dkt. No. 201. After careful consideration, the Court GRANTS the motion.

*862 I. LEGAL STANDARDS

A. Motion for Judgment on the Pleadings

Under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure ("Rule")…