Shutterstock has taken a monumental step in boosting confidence among businesses using AI by offering full indemnification to enterprise users. This means that the popular stock photo site will protect businesses from any legal claims arising from images created with the site’s AI art generator. In order to ensure the safety and reliability of these AI-generated images, Shutterstock has confirmed that they will undergo a thorough human review process.
This move by Shutterstock comes hot on the heels of a similar announcement made by Adobe. The software giant unveiled plans to introduce intellectual property (IP) indemnity for businesses using its generative AI platform, Firefly. Both companies clearly understand the importance of providing businesses with peace of mind when it comes to using AI-generated content.
One of the key advantages of AI-generated images is the speed and cost-effectiveness they offer. However, without proper review and vetting processes in place, companies can find themselves facing legal action. This not only defeats the purpose of using these tools, but it also poses significant risks.
Shutterstock’s AI-generated images do not go through the same review and vetting process as traditional stock video and photo assets on its platform. Without careful scrutiny and the use of graphic design software to edit any potentially problematic images, companies could find themselves in legal trouble.
To address this issue and provide a solution, Shutterstock now offers full indemnification for the license and use of generative AI images. This means that businesses can use these AI images without fear of copyright infringement or ethical concerns. This move is not only beneficial for Shutterstock’s customers, but also for the industry as a whole, as it sets a precedent for protecting businesses and artists alike.
Jeff Cunning, Shutterstock’s Vice President of Product, stressed the importance of this advancement, stating, This is a critical advancement, not just for our platform, but for the industry as creatives and business professionals alike can use the AI content generated on our platform for any purpose, whether it’s commercial or personal, without worrying about copyright infringement or ethical issues. We feel it’s a crucial step towards protecting our customers and our artists.
This sentiment was echoed by John Lapham, General Counsel at Shutterstock, who acknowledged the growing demand for assurance among business professionals regarding their rights to legally use AI-generated content. On the other hand, creators of original content also want to ensure that their work is fairly licensed for use.
After testing indemnified images with selected customers, Shutterstock will now expand protections to all enterprise users upon request. This move not only highlights the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and legality of AI-generated content, but it also sets a precedent for the industry as a whole by addressing the increasing need for reassurance and protection when using generative AI technology.
