📢 In a bold move shaking up Silicon Valley, The Wall Street Journal and the New York Post have filed a lawsuit against Perplexity AI, alleging massive copyright infringement and trademark violations.
Perplexity AI, often dubbed one of Silicon Valley's hottest startups 💻, is known for its AI-powered search engine that's been touted as a potential disruptor to Google. Unlike traditional search engines, Perplexity's minimalist and conversational interface provides ready-made answers right on its webpage, making it unnecessary for users to click through to source websites.
According to the lawsuit filed in a federal court in New York 🏛️, Perplexity is accused of illegally copying and reproducing copyrighted content from both newspapers to power its AI-driven \"answer engine.\" The complaint alleges this amounts to \"massive freeriding\" on protected content, diverting readers and revenue from the publishers.
\"Unlike the business model of a traditional internet search engine, Perplexity's business model does not drive business toward content creators. To the contrary, it usurps content creators' monetization opportunities for itself,\" the lawsuit states.
Perplexity, backed by big names like Amazon-billionaire Jeff Bezos and AI giant Nvidia, has not yet responded to requests for comment 🤔.
The publishers are seeking injunctive relief and statutory damages of up to $150,000 per infringement 💰. They are also requesting the destruction of any database containing their copyrighted works.
This move follows similar actions by other major publishers. The New York Times recently sent a cease and desist letter to Perplexity, and last year, it filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, accusing the ChatGPT-maker of using its content without permission.
Interestingly, News Corp, the owner of the WSJ and the Post, has signed a content agreement with OpenAI. The lawsuit alleges that Perplexity ignored requests to enter into such partnerships.
🌐 As the AI landscape evolves, this case highlights the tension between innovative tech companies and traditional content creators. Will this legal battle redefine how AI platforms use and share content? Stay tuned!
Reference(s):
WSJ, New York Post sue Perplexity AI for copyright infringement
cgtn.com
