Introduction to OpenAI’s Temporary Block
OpenAI has temporarily blocked users from creating content containing the likeness of Martin Luther King Jr. on its Sister 2 AI video app. This decision was made after some people created what the tech company called “disrespectful depictions” of the civil rights leader.
Background
OpenAI, the company behind generative AI platform ChatGPT, announced on social media late Thursday that it made the decision after Bernice A. King, King’s youngest child, contacted the company on behalf of his estate. At the estate’s request, "OpenAI has paused generations from portraying Dr. King while strengthening the guardrails for historical figures."
The Reason Behind the Decision
The technology company launched Sora 2 in September, an AI video generation app that allows users to create hyper-realistic and fantastical content with “cameos” of themselves, friends, and others who grant permission. However, OpenAI has not specified its guidelines for creating videos with images of deceased people. The company said Thursday that authorized representatives and property owners can request that a public figure’s likeness not be used in Sora 2 videos.
Control Over Likeness
Users can control the use of their own likeness on Sora 2. “While there is a strong interest in free expression when depicting historical figures, OpenAI believes that public figures and their families should ultimately have control over how their likeness is used,”
Controversy Surrounding Sora 2
Sora 2 also sparked controversy after content creators created a flood of video clips that featured copyrighted characters. The company will give copyright holders "more granular control over character generation."
Conclusion
OpenAI has taken a step to respect the likeness of historical figures, particularly Martin Luther King Jr., by temporarily blocking users from creating content containing his likeness on its Sister 2 AI video app. This decision aims to strengthen the guardrails for historical figures and respect the control of public figures and their families over their likeness.
