Copyright Protection for AI-Generated Content: A Study Perspective from Chinese Law

Abstract

The rapid proliferation of AI technology, marking the transition from weak AI to strong AI, has catalyzed a surge in AI-generated content across various domains. This transformation has brought into question the protection of intellectual property rights associated with AI-generated works. This paper embarks on an exploration of the evolving framework for protecting AI-generated content within the context of Chinese law. It delves into the multifaceted dimensions of this issue, scrutinizing copyright disputes arising from the innovative nature of AI content generation. Furthermore, it critically analyzes judicial practices to discern the evolving legal stance regarding AI-generated works, distinguishing cases where protection is granted from those where it is denied. In response to the challenges posed by this nascent field, the article also proposes a set of strategies geared towards fortifying the protective mechanisms for AI-generated content. These strategies encompass the development of classification criteria based on the purpose of content generation, the enhancement of intellectual property registration and verification mechanisms, and the promotion of synergy between technological advancements and legal frameworks.