New York Times Sues Microsoft and OpenAI Over AI Training Copyrights
The New York Times files a major copyright lawsuit against Microsoft and OpenAI, accusing the tech companies of using its journalism to train AI models without permission. The publisher seeks billions in damages while OpenAI expresses surprise at the legal action.
The New York Times files a lawsuit against Microsoft and OpenAI in a federal court in New York, accusing the companies of copyright infringement. The newspaper claims that the creators of ChatGPT use its proprietary journalism to train large language models without permission or compensation. Microsoft, which heavily invests in and supplies cloud computing technology to OpenAI, faces these allegations alongside its AI partner.
The publisher seeks billions of dollars in statutory and actual damages for what it describes as the unlawful copying and use of its uniquely valuable works. While the Times acknowledges the potential of generative AI for the public and journalism, it insists that companies must obtain permission before using its content for commercial gain. The newspaper emphasizes that its material requires high-cost reporting, editing, and fact-checking that AI companies currently exploit for free.
OpenAI responds with surprise and disappointment, stating that its ongoing conversations with the Times have been productive and constructive. The AI company insists that it respects the rights of content creators and wants to find a mutually beneficial way to work together. Microsoft does not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the litigation, which the Times pursues with the same law firm that recently secured a massive settlement for Dominion Voting Systems against Fox News.