Shutterstock and Databricks Collaborate for Copyright-Safe AI Image Generator

Shutterstock has partnered with Databricks to develop an AI image generator that prioritizes copyright clearance and fair artist compensation.

The stock media licensing firm's lucrative AI licensing business expands further with this new collaboration with Databricks. The latter will train a new diffusion model with Shutterstock's vast content library to produce an AI image generator that is commercially safer to use than other alternatives. Both companies will market the resulting app, and Shutterstock will be compensated for every image generated with it.

ImageAI, A Copyright-Safe AI Image Generator

As FastCompany informed us, the collaboration between Shutterstock and Databricks—providers of a cloud platform for data and AI—marks a significant step in the development of AI image generation technology. By utilizing Shutterstock's vast content library, the new AI image generator aims to ensure ethical standards in image synthesis for commercial use.

Powered by Databricks' AI platform, the ImageAI generator offers a notable advantage over other solutions by exclusively using authorized content from Shutterstock. This approach minimizes the risk of copyright infringement, providing reassurance to users, particularly businesses seeking visuals for marketing purposes.

Under the partnership, Databricks will compensate Shutterstock for each generated image. Both companies will offer access to the new app, including through third-party platforms via API.

Naveen Rao, head of generative AI at Databricks, compares ImageAI's approach to solving the Napster problem with iTunes. He highlights the importance of proper authorization and fair compensation for artists whose work is used in image synthesis.

AI Licensing, the New Revenue Stream for Shutterstock

Shutterstock's recent disclosure of substantial revenue from AI licensing underscores the growing demand for such solutions. The partnership with Databricks further solidifies Shutterstock's position in the AI licensing market.

This collaboration not only drives AI innovation but also ensures the availability of legally compliant applications, signaling promising developments in the field of AI and content licensing.

THE AUTHOR

Ivanna Attie

All About Ivanna

I am an experienced author with expertise in digital communication, stock media, design, and creative tools. I have closely followed and reported on AI developments in this field since its early days. I have gained valuable industry insight through my work with leading digital media professionals since 2014.

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