Disney has taken legal action against ByteDance's AI video tool Seedance, accusing the company of a "virtual smash-and-grab" of Disney's intellectual property. The cease-and-desist letter points out that the AI model is capable of generating videos featuring beloved characters from Disney's Marvel and Star Wars franchises, raising significant concerns about copyright infringement. This move follows a similar action against Google for its AI services that previously allowed the generation of Disney-owned characters without authorization.

The controversy surrounding Seedance does not only involve Disney; it has also attracted the attention of foreign governments. Japan's cabinet office has initiated an investigation into ByteDance for potential violations of copyright, particularly after reports surfaced of AI-generated videos showcasing famous Japanese anime and manga characters, such as Detective Conan and Ultraman. This raises questions about the broader implications of AI technologies in content creation and the responsibilities of tech companies in respecting intellectual property rights.

Analysts suggest that the scrutiny faced by Seedance might also be a strategic move in the public relations arena. With major companies and governments emphasizing copyright protection, the discourse could serve to position these entities as defenders of creative rights in an era where AI-generated content blurs the line of ownership. As this conflict unfolds, it highlights the ongoing tensions between innovation and intellectual property in the digital age and sparks discussions about the future regulation of AI applications.