OpenAI is temporarily blocked from using the word ‘cameo’ for its video app
In a significant legal development, OpenAI has been temporarily barred from using the term “cameo” in its Sora video application following a lawsuit by Cameo, the personalized video platform. This ruling, issued by US District Judge Eumi K. Lee, is set to remain in effect until December 22, 2023. The controversy arose when OpenAI named a feature in its Sora app “cameos,” which allows users to create personalized video content featuring themselves, pets, or objects. Cameo, which specializes in providing personalized video messages from celebrities, filed for trademark infringement on October 28, arguing that OpenAI’s use of the term could confuse consumers and dilute their brand.
Judge Lee’s ruling suggests that OpenAI’s use of “cameo” likely infringes upon Cameo’s trademark rights, a point emphasized in her decision. She noted that OpenAI’s argument—that the injunction could harm its ability to launch Sora—was insufficient, as the harm stemmed from their potential infringement of a federally registered trademark. Cameo’s CEO, Steven Galanis, took to social media urging OpenAI to comply with the court’s order promptly, especially given the upcoming holiday season, which is a peak time for Cameo’s business. OpenAI, however, maintains its stance, arguing that exclusive ownership of the term “cameo” cannot be claimed by any single entity.
The case highlights the ongoing complexities of trademark law in the digital age, particularly as AI and technology companies continue to innovate and introduce new features that may inadvertently overlap with established brands. OpenAI’s Sora app, which aims to capitalize on the growing popularity of short-form video content, now faces a potential rebranding challenge. A hearing is scheduled for December 19 to determine whether the temporary injunction will be made permanent, leaving OpenAI in a precarious position as it navigates the legal landscape while trying to fulfill its ambitious goals for the Sora platform.
OpenAI Sora app
Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto
A federal judge has temporarily blocked OpenAI from using the term “cameo” in the Sora video app.
US District Judge Eumi K. Lee’s ruling lasts until December 22.
Cameo, the personalized video company, sued OpenAI for trademark infringement.
OpenAI
may have to go back to the drawing board to name a core feature of its popular AI video generation app, Sora.
US District Judge Eumi K. Lee has ruled that OpenAI cannot use the word “cameo,” or any other similar name, tied to the use or promotion of its Sora app, until December 22.
The AI company named a feature on the TikTok-esque app that creates a linkness of the user, a pet, or even an object in the app “cameos.” On October 28, Cameo, the personalized video company, filed a trademark suit against OpenAI in federal court in California to stop it from using the word.
As of late Monday morning, OpenAI was still using “cameo” on the Sora app.
Lee wrote in her ruling that OpenAI is likely infringing on the trademark held by Cameo, known for allowing users to pay for personalized videos, often recorded by celebrities.
“Defendants’ only argument to the contrary is that the requested injunction would ‘harm OpenAI’s ability to successfully launch its Sora app and other Sora 2 functionality,'” Lee wrote in a ruling issued on Friday. ‘However, Defendants’ harm arises from its own likely infringing use of a federally registered mark.”
Cameo CEO Steven Galanis on X called for OpenAI to move swiftly to adhere to the judge’s order.
“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,” he wrote, adding, “30% of all @BookCameo videos get created between Thanksgiving and Christmas so time is of the essence.”
OpenAI said it looks “forward to continuing to make our case to the court.”
“We disagree with the complaint’s assertion that anyone can claim exclusive ownership over the word ‘cameo,'” an OpenAI spokesperson said in a statement to Business Insider.
Lee has scheduled a hearing for December 19 on whether the temporary block should be made permanent.
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