AI-Generated Content and Copyright Protection: Legal Challenges and the Future of Copyright Law

Abstract

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has transformed the manner in which creative works are conceived, produced, and disseminated. Generative AI systems are now capable of creating literary works, artistic images, music, software code, and audiovisual content with minimal human intervention. While these developments have enhanced creativity and innovation, they have also exposed significant uncertainties within copyright law. Traditional copyright doctrines were developed on the premise that every protected work originates from human intellectual effort. AI-generated content challenges this assumption by raising complex questions concerning authorship, originality, ownership, and infringement. This article critically examines the legal implications of AI-generated content under copyright law with particular reference to India while drawing comparative insights from the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. It argues that although existing copyright principles continue to provide a useful foundation, legislative clarification is necessary to address the unique issues created by generative AI. The article concludes by proposing a balanced regulatory approach that encourages technological innovation without undermining the protection afforded to human creativity.