AI-Generated Art Can’t Be Copyrighted

A federal judge has ruled that AI-generated art cannot be copyrighted, setting a precedent with potential repercussions for Hollywood. The case involved Stephen Thaler, who sought to have his AI system recognized as the sole creator of an artwork. The judge upheld the Copyright Office’s decision to reject this, asserting that human authorship is a fundamental requirement for copyright.

This ruling draws parallels with the “monkey selfie” case, which established that non-humans cannot claim copyright. However, the judge acknowledged that future cases might pose more complex questions about the level of human involvement in AI-generated works. This decision may affect Hollywood’s efforts to use AI in creative processes and could impact contract disputes with actors and writers.