ByteDance to fix AI video tool after Hollywood copyright backlash

ByteDance has pledged to bolster safeguards on its new artificial intelligence video generator, Seedance 2.0, following fierce accusations of large-scale copyright theft.

The Chinese tech giant faced a significant backlash after the tool was used to create realistic videos featuring famous Hollywood characters and celebrity likenesses without permission.

The Motion Picture Association (MPA), representing giants like Netflix and Disney, issued a stern warning demanding an immediate end to "infringing activity."

MPA chairman Charles Rivkin stated: "In a single day, the Chinese AI service Seedance 2.0 has engaged in unauthorized use of U.S. copyrighted works on a massive scale."

He further criticised ByteDance for "disregarding well-established copyright law that protects the rights of creators and underpins millions of American jobs."

Legal pressure mounted quickly as Disney and Paramount Skydance reportedly issued cease-and-desist letters.

Disney’s notice allegedly accused ByteDance of treating its intellectual property like "public-domain clip art."

This stands in contrast to Disney’s recent licensing deal with OpenAI, which permits the controlled use of Star Wars and Marvel characters.

In response to the Hollywood uproar, a ByteDance spokesperson told CNBC: "ByteDance respects intellectual property rights and we have heard the concerns regarding Seedance 2.0."

The company is now scrambling to implement stricter filters. "We are taking steps to strengthen current safeguards as we work to prevent the unauthorised use of intellectual property and likeness by users," the spokesperson added.

This clash highlights the growing tension between rapid AI innovation and the protection of creative industries.