Microsoft , Google, OpenAI, Apple and Meta are facing heat from the U.K.’s creative community over the use of copyrighted material in artificial intelligence (AI) development.
The Creators’ Rights Alliance (CRA) has fired off a stern warning to these tech behemoths and others in the software development sector, demanding an end to the unauthorized use of creative works for AI training and operation. In a letter sent Wednesday, the CRA, representing over 500,000 U.K.
creators, asserted that its members do not permit the use of their copyrighted material for AI purposes without specific licensing agreements. This move comes as creators across various fields report increasing concerns about AI’s impact on their livelihoods. A Writers Guild of Great Britain survey found that 65% of respondents believe AI will reduce their income, while 61% worry about job displacement in their craft areas.
Recent incidents have highlighted the urgency of the issue. The CRA provided the example of an illustrator discovering their work on a new site, incorrectly attributed to another artist; and voice cloning without consent affecting high-profile figures like Stephen Fry and Scarlett Johansson. The alliance outlined seven key demands for AI developers, including full transparency about works used, obtaining prior authorization from creators and rightsholders, offering appropriate remuneration, and providing attribution in all cases.
The CRA is calling on the U.K. government to support initia.