Copyright Revolution? Japan goes all in on AI

An unprecedented stance on copyright enforcement

Tristan Wolff
The Generator

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Image by the author & Midjourney

While the world is divided on how to regulate artificial intelligence, Japan is going all in with a visionary strategy. Let’s take a look at what’s behind the country’s move, which not only comes as a surprise given the EU’s AI Act and concerns about overregulation, but is also likely to have implications for the other G7 countries.

The Copyright Revolution

At the core of Japan’s AI strategy is a set of guiding principles ensuring that AI not only drives innovation but also aligns with societal values, encompassing aspects such as privacy, security, education, and fair competition. This approach aims to make AI an ally that benefits humanity rather than an unbridled force.

However, what truly sets Japan apart is its groundbreaking stance on copyright enforcement concerning data used in AI training. In an audacious move, Japan’s government has taken the position that

copyrights on data will not be enforced when used for AI training.

This policy grants AI systems the freedom to utilize any data, irrespective of its source or purpose, and even if obtained through unauthorized means.

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