OpenAI’s creation Sora (AI for creating videos) uses copyrighted characters like Pikachu, SpongeBob, etc. Sora, by far, has let its users create copyrighted videos, which include scenes belonging to movie studios and TV companies like Disney and Warner Bros. But not anymore, as they are subject to Copyright laws, and OpenAI can’t let anyone use them freely. Moreover, 2025 has witnessed several Copyright infringement lawsuits against tech giants, including OpenAI, Microsoft, and Anthropic, among others. So, what is OpenAI going to do about it? Will these companies and original creators take action against OpenAI? For all that, learn more.
What OpenAI Is Doing About It?
These rising tensions between OpenAI and Hollywood have led the company to take measures. OpenAI is now adding new controls for content owners:
- More granular control → Copyright holders can decide on specific controls, such as how the character appears or is portrayed in the videos.
- Option to block → The creators and the studios will also have the option to block the character usage entirely.
The Business Side (Monetisation)
- The company will soon start a revenue share model with copyright owners.
- This model applies to the creators who allow their characters or content to be used in Sora videos.
- Nothing is set in stone at the moment, but plans are underway.
Sam Altman Said…
Sam Altman, in a blog post, mentioned that OpenAI has spent a lot of time learning by taking feedback from its users and rightsholders. And so they decided to monetise the process to benefit both parties.
He stressed that the team is still figuring out exactly how the system will work, but says that it will take some “trial and error.”
He further added that the team will test different models soon and begin with Sora first, and proceed with other AI products.
Why This Matters?
- Hollywood is catching the AI flames. AI actors, AI in writing, and the open use of original content are worrying creators. Now the studios want to ensure that these creations are not misused (without consent and without reasonable payment).
- Following the recent developments with Sora, Disney has already opted out, and many others might do the same.
- If this happens on a larger scale, the creative side ability of the AI will be much limited. However, OpenAI is committed to finding a middle ground to keep the characters and to compensate them for doing so.
Yash Gupta
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