2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for artificial intelligence and U.S. copyright law. Courts are now confronting a critical question: does training AI on copyrighted material qualify as fair use, or does it require compensation to creators?
Following major lawsuits from publishers, authors, and entertainment giants—and a historic $1.5 billion settlement—judges have issued divided rulings. Some see AI training as transformative innovation, while others warn it could overwhelm creative markets and undermine the very purpose of copyright law.
With more cases and hearings ahead, upcoming decisions may determine whether AI companies can rely on fair use defenses or must adopt large-scale licensing models that could reshape the industry.
Here is the link: https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/ai-copyright-battles-enter-pivotal-year-us-courts-weigh-fair-use-2026-01-05/
