tech
Taylor Swift files trademarks for voice and image amid concern over AI misuse
The singer’s company filed three applications on Friday after Matthew McConaughey launched similar strategy
TL;DR
- Taylor Swift's company, TAS Rights Management, filed three trademark applications on April 24.
- Two applications are for sound trademarks covering phrases like 'Hey, it’s Taylor Swift' and 'Hey, it’s Taylor'.
- The third application protects a specific image of Swift on stage during her Eras tour.
- This move is seen as a protection against AI misuse, including deepfakes and unauthorized endorsements.
- Matthew McConaughey recently trademarked his catchphrase and other aspects of his likeness for similar reasons.
- Intellectual property attorney Josh Gerben noted that registering a celebrity's voice is a new legal area.
- Trademarks may help fill a gap left by copyright law in protecting AI-generated voice imitations.
- Swift already owns numerous trademarks related to her name, albums, and song lyrics.