New York Times Sues Microsoft and OpenAI Over ChatGPT's Use of Intellectual Property
The New York Times has filed a lawsuit against Microsoft and OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, for alleged copyright infringement and misuse of the newspaper's intellectual property in developing AI models.
Summary
- Lawsuit Filed: The New York Times filed a lawsuit against Microsoft and OpenAI, accusing them of copyright infringement and exploiting the newspaper's intellectual property.
- Claims of Damages: The Times is seeking potentially billions in statutory and actual damages for the claimed unlawful copying and use of its content.
- Allegation Details: The lawsuit alleges that Microsoft and OpenAI's AI systems retain and exploit large portions of The Times's copyrighted content without permission.
- Microsoft and OpenAI's Involvement: Microsoft invests in and provides Azure cloud computing technology to OpenAI.
- The Times's Position: The Times acknowledges the potential of generative AI but insists on the need for permission to use journalistic content for commercial gain.
- OpenAI's Response: OpenAI expressed disappointment with the lawsuit, citing ongoing, productive conversations with The New York Times.
- Microsoft's Non-response: Microsoft did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
- Legal Representation: The Times is represented by Susman Godfrey, the firm that won a significant settlement for Dominion Voting Systems against Fox News.
- Broader Context: This lawsuit is part of a larger trend where media organizations are seeking compensation from AI companies for using their content in AI training.
- OpenAI's Previous Actions: OpenAI had partnered with Axel Springer for licensed content use, but financial details were not disclosed.
- Specific Allegations: The lawsuit includes instances where OpenAI's GPT-4 produced content similar to The Times's, sometimes lacking critical context.
- Impact on The Times: The lawsuit claims that AI models compete with and limit The Times’s commercial opportunities, and misuse its content, affecting subscription, licensing, advertising, and affiliate revenue.
- Overall Media Industry Concern: There is a growing concern among publishers that AI chatbots might reduce traffic and revenue by diminishing the need for direct engagement with news sites.