Getty Images launches a new GenAI service for iStock customers

Getty Images unveiled its latest offering, Generative AI by iStock, at CES 2024, introducing a service that employs AI trained on Getty’s vast iStock photo and video collections to produce new licensable images and artwork. This innovative service, backed by Nvidia’s technology, aims to ensure generated content avoids copyrighted elements such as recognizable products, individuals, or places, according to Tech Crunch.

Available in 75 languages, Generative AI by iStock can both modify existing images and craft entirely new ones. Furthermore, its API compatibility allows seamless integration into various apps and plug-ins. Customers can access this service at $15 for every 100 generated images.

Grant Farhall, the Chief Product Officer at iStock, highlighted the primary objective behind this launch: offering clients an affordable and risk-free AI-powered creative solution. He emphasized the importance of ensuring legal compliance and protecting users from inadvertently incorporating copyrighted material into their projects.

However, the introduction of Generative AI by iStock amid the growing AI copyright debate raises pertinent concerns. AI models like GenAI, drawing insights from vast datasets encompassing artwork, literature, and other content, can sometimes produce outputs reminiscent of copyrighted material. A case in point is Microsoft’s chatbot generating unauthorized Disney posters.

In a recent IEEE Spectrum article, AI critic Gary Marcus and visual effects artist Reid Southen highlighted the potential copyright infringement risks associated with AI systems like OpenAI’s DALL-E 3. They underscored the absence of accessible tools or guidelines enabling users to discern potential copyright violations.

The evolving legal landscape reflects these concerns. Artists have initiated lawsuits against various AI developers, alleging infringement by training AI models on their original creations. Getty Images itself has engaged in legal battles, notably suing Stability AI in the U.K. for purportedly replicating and processing its extensive image database.

Recognizing the legal implications for users, Getty Images has incorporated a safeguard within Generative AI by iStock. Each generated visual via this service includes a $10,000 legal coverage, potentially mitigating risks for customers ensnared in copyright disputes arising from their AI-generated content usage.