SAG-AFTRA, the union representing Hollywood performers, has recently responded to studios’ “last, best and final” offer to end the strike. Reportedly, they rejected clauses that would allow studios to re-use AI-created likenesses of high-demand and deceased performers without consent from their estate or families. It has been stated that the union is adamant about not allowing studios to exploit performers. Within the context of the offer, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) would “secure AI scans” for Schedule F performers, who are union members earning more than $32,000 per TV episode or $60,000 per film. Studios would pay once to scan the likenesses of these performers without paying for their use or re-use, essentially giving them eternal rights to their face after paying once upfront. Additionally, the offer appeared to offer limitless use of dead performers’ AI-created likenesses without proper permission. This loophole was seen as unacceptable by the union, leading to a rejection of the offer.
After this part of the dispute became public, reports suggested that the union reached a common understanding with AMPTP on “thorny issues” such as AI consent after an actor dies, indicating a possible resolution to the conflict on this issue.
In other news, GM’s autonomous vehicle Cruise division is facing significant challenges, with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) suspending its driverless permits over safety issues. The company’s robotaxis also reportedly experienced issues recognizing children and frequently required human operators to remotely take control. These challenges have led to Cruise halting production of its Origin autonomous vehicle after the California DMV revoked its license. A GM spokesperson confirmed that the company is “finishing production on a small number of pre-commercial vehicles and after that, plan[s] to temporarily pause production.”
On the gaming front, Nintendo continues to perform well, with digital game sales driving its success. The company reported selling 19.5 million copies of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom from March to September 2023, alongside strong sales of other titles such as Pikmin 4 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Moreover, Sony’s latest pro-oriented mirrorless camera, the Alpha A9 III, has been revealed, boasting a global stacked sensor that sets a new standard in the photographic world.
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Finally, Apple Watch users experiencing battery drain issues following the installation of watchOS 10.1 received two pieces of good news. Apple acknowledged the problem and released a fix with the latest version of watchOS, 10.1.1, providing relief for users experiencing the issue.
In conclusion, the entertainment and technology industries are experiencing both triumphs and challenges. While there are disputes to navigate and technological advancements to embrace, the future of these sectors remains dynamic and filled with promise.
