copyright

Spotify is partnering with major music industry players like Sony, Universal, and Warner Music to develop “responsible” AI products. This initiative aims to harness AI’s potential while respecting artist rights and copyright, addressing growing concerns about unauthorized AI usage in music. Spotify is investing in AI research, including a new AI lab, and has already integrated AI-powered features like AI DJ and AI Playlist. The collaboration focuses on partnerships, artist choice, fair compensation, and artist-fan connection, striving to shape an AI-driven music future that values human creativity.

Hollywood agency CAA has criticized OpenAI’s Sora platform, citing risks to intellectual property and creators’ rights. CAA questions OpenAI’s compensation and attribution stance, advocating for control, permission, and compensation for artists. Other agencies like WME and UTA have also voiced concerns, with Disney sending a warning letter to OpenAI. The Motion Picture Association urges action against copyright infringement. The entertainment industry’s increasing apprehension reflects broader legal uncertainties surrounding AI-generated content and copyright law.

Anthropic has reportedly agreed to a $1.5 billion settlement in a copyright lawsuit brought by authors who alleged their works were used without permission to train AI models. The proposed settlement includes payments of $3,000 per book plus interest and a commitment to destroy datasets containing the allegedly infringing material. This landmark case addresses copyright law in AI development. The plaintiffs’ attorney emphasized the importance of respecting copyright laws for AI training. The lawsuit, filed last year, claimed “large-scale copyright infringement.” Following a substantial funding round, experts believe this settlement could clarify legal frameworks around AI training data.

Tencent Music Entertainment (TME) briefly surpassed Baidu in market capitalization, highlighting a market re-evaluation. Investors favor TME’s proven “copyright-to-subscribers-to-revenue” model over Baidu’s AI investments, which await clearer commercial returns. This shift signals changing internet traffic dynamics and investment logic, with TME evolving into a dedicated content provider.

In Shenzhen’s gold market, “gold Labubu” accessories are booming, driven by young consumers. Retailers are selling phone charms, jewelry, and pendants, despite lacking authorization from the Labubu IP owner. This has prompted warnings of potential copyright infringement and unfair competition. Local authorities have announced inspections and will take action against unauthorized sales, leading some vendors to sell the items discreetly.