How does copyright apply to AI generated work?

I had an interesting discussion this evening on Radio New Zealand Checkpoint with Lisa Owen about the enormous challenges that AI is creating in the music industry and how copyright law is no longer fit for purpose in this area.

Amongst other topics, we discussed:

Are current laws fit for purpose? That was an easy one to answer – No!
AI’s use of people’s music to learn – a far more nuanced issue;
Who owns works created through AI? Again, it’s not straightforward;
What legal checks and balances are needed? I suggested that what has to happen is collaboration between the music industry,musicians, artists , and, of course, the central government and internationally.

Clive Elliott-Barrister

I live and work in Auckland, New Zealand. I am a frequent writer and commentator on intellectual property and information technology issues. I am a barrister and arbitrator. Before going to the Bar in 2000, I was a partner and headed the litigation team at Baldwin Shelston Waters/Baldwins. I took silk in 2013. Feel free to contact me via phone, email or social media.