Netflix threatens ByteDance over copyright-violating AI

Netflix has threatened to sue ByteDance, the owner of TikTok, over alleged copyright violations involving its new AI, Seedance 2.0. The recently launched tool is accused of generating realistic videos that use protected content without permission. In addition to Netflix, studios like Disney, Paramount, and Warner Bros have also expressed similar concerns.

In a notice sent on October 17, Netflix demanded the removal of protected content from Seedance 2.0's training data and requested measures to prevent future violations. The company labeled the AI as a “high-speed piracy engine” and gave ByteDance three days to respond to the demand.

Netflix highlights that Seedance 2.0 allegedly referenced shows like Bridgerton and Stranger Things, creating unauthorized derivative content. Other examples include mimicking the visual style of K-Pop Warriors and creating crossovers with Squid Game, inserting real characters like Elon Musk into the plots.

ByteDance has already announced measures to adjust Seedance 2.0 to prevent unauthorized use of protected content. These changes come after criticism from Hollywood, but the company has not specified when the new rules will be implemented.

At the heart of the dispute is the technological advancement in using AI for video generation, raising copyright issues. ByteDance's response will be crucial in determining whether legal confrontation can be avoided.