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Hollywood Protests Against ByteDance's AI Model for Copyright Infringement

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The launch of Seedance 2.0, an AI video model developed by ByteDance, has sparked significant controversy in the entertainment industry.

  • Hollywood organizations argue that the AI enables rampant copyright infringement by generating videos using intellectual property without authorization.
  • Seedance 2.0 is an updated AI model by ByteDance, initially distributed through its Jianying app in China, with plans to expand to global users via the CapCut app.
  • The Motion Picture Association, represented by CEO Charles Rivkin, called for ByteDance to halt its activities, citing violations of US copyright laws.
  • Hollywood unions and trade groups have condemned the tool as an attack on creators worldwide, a sentiment echoed by SAG-AFTRA.
  • Demonstrating the tool's capability and the problem it poses, an X user showed a video of popular actors created with just a short text prompt.
  • Realizing the potential threat, companies like Disney and Paramount have issued cease-and-desist letters to ByteDance, accusing the model of misusing their iconic characters and content.
  • Despite this controversy, Disney has shown willingness to partner with AI firms, evidenced by its licensing deal with OpenAI.
  • The article notes that TechCrunch has contacted ByteDance for a statement, which has yet to be received.

This article also briefly mentions the upcoming TechCrunch Founder Summit 2026, which is unrelated to the primary content.