Copyright questions loom as ChatGPT's Ghibli-style images go viral ...
The release of the latest image generator on OpenAI's ChatGPT has triggered an online flood of memes featuring images done in the style of Studio Ghibli, the Japanese studio behind classic animated films like "My Neighbor Totoro" and "Princess Mononoke."
The virality of these images, with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman even changing his profile picture to match the style, immediately raised questions about copyright infringement by the ChatGPT maker, which already faces lawsuits regarding the use of source material without permission.
The Impact of AI-Generated Ghibli-Style Images
Since the release, AI-generated images depicting Studio Ghibli versions of Elon Musk with US President Donald Trump, "The Lord of the Rings," and even a recreation of the September 11 attacks have gone viral across online platforms.
On Thursday, the White House even participated by posting a Ghibli-style image on social media depicting a weeping alleged felon being handcuffed by a US immigration officer before her deportation.
The Future of AI-Generated Content
Originally intended to be available on the platform for free, Altman mentioned that due to the unexpected success of the new generator, the tool would remain limited to paid users for now.
OpenAI had previously allowed users to generate images with ChatGPT, but the new version, powered by GPT-4o, the company's highest-performing model, provides more sophisticated results through concise requests.
Reactions from the Industry
After the viral trend, a resurfaced video from 2016 showed Studio Ghibli's director Hayao Miyazaki expressing his strong disapproval during an AI demonstration by staff.
The trend has sparked discussions on the implications for artists and creators, with some, like artist and illustrator Jayd "Chira" Ait-Kaci, criticizing the use of AI technology in this manner.
Legal Challenges and Fair Use
OpenAI is currently facing several lawsuits over copyright infringements, and the company is actively seeking changes in regulations to include the use of copyrighted content by AI companies under the fair use doctrine.
Bloomberg reported that OpenAI is close to finalizing a $40 billion funding round, making it the largest funding round ever for a startup. The company projects significant revenue growth in the coming years.
It is crucial for AI companies to navigate the complex landscape of copyright laws and fair use provisions to ensure innovation while respecting intellectual property rights.
Source: doc.afp.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange
