UPDATE: OpenAI is urgently prohibited from using the term “cameo” in its Sora video app, following a significant ruling by US District Judge Eumi K. Lee. The temporary block will remain in effect until December 22, as the well-known personalized video company, Cameo, pursues legal action for trademark infringement.
This ruling marks a pivotal moment for OpenAI’s Sora app, which features “cameos” as a core functionality that generates personalized videos of users, pets, and objects. The lawsuit, filed on October 28, has raised serious implications for OpenAI’s launch strategy, especially as the holiday season approaches.
In her ruling issued on Friday, Judge Lee indicated that OpenAI is likely infringing on Cameo’s trademark, a brand synonymous with celebrity-voiced personalized videos. “Defendants’ harm arises from its own likely infringing use of a federally registered mark,” she stated, emphasizing the potential damage to Cameo’s brand integrity.
Cameo CEO Steven Galanis urged OpenAI to comply swiftly with the court’s decision, highlighting the urgency of the situation. He posted on X, “It’s critical that @OpenAI adheres to Judge Lee’s Temporary Restraining Order ASAP to prevent further irreparable harm to Cameo’s brand and IP.” Galanis noted that a substantial 30% of all Cameo videos are produced between Thanksgiving and Christmas, making compliance crucial for both brands.
As of late Monday morning, OpenAI was still using the term “cameo” within the Sora app, despite the court’s ruling. An OpenAI spokesperson expressed the company’s dissatisfaction with the lawsuit, arguing that “anyone can claim exclusive ownership over the word ‘cameo’.” They stated, “We look forward to continuing to make our case to the court.”
Looking ahead, a crucial hearing is set for December 19, where the court will determine whether the temporary injunction should be made permanent. This pivotal decision will not only influence OpenAI’s app but may also reshape how tech companies navigate trademark laws in the burgeoning AI landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates as this legal battle unfolds, impacting both OpenAI and Cameo during one of the busiest times of the year.
