During a fireside chat at the AVIA Asia Video Summit, Vobile CEO Yangbin Wang discussed the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the entertainment industry. In conversation with Louis Boswell, CEO of AVIA, Wang spoke about Vobile’s nearly two-decade history, highlighting the company’s technological advancements, and shared insights on how AI will impact content creation and protection.
Louis kicked off the conversation by asking Yangbin about Vobile’s approach to AI.
History Repeating Itself
Wang began by looking back on his career, which he started as an engineer in Silicon Valley focusing on digital video compression. He pointed out the significant technological advancements from that time that have led to new AI models like Sora. Today, the process of creating content with AI has become so fast, easy, and convenient, which has understandably raised concerns. However, Wang also shared that studios have been using AI to enhance production efficiency for quite some time.
He compared the rise of AI to the emergence of user-generated content, which inspired Yangbin to establish Vobile in 2005. The central issue surrounding content remains unchanged: safeguarding the rights of content creators, which is the cornerstone of Vobile’s business. With the evolution of AI, Vobile is well positioned in this new era.
Vobile’s Evolution
When asked about Vobile’s growth, Wang shared that it is a testament to technological innovation. Over the years, the company has developed cutting-edge tools that help content owners and rights holders protect their intellectual property across various platforms in an increasingly digital world. He emphasized that this ongoing evolution is driven by Vobile’s core commitment to help its customers manage rights and drive revenue.
AI: Opportunity or Threat
The conversation then shifted to AI's impact on the entertainment industry, particularly in content protection and creativity. Wang believes AI offers opportunities in numerous ways. AI will increase inclusivity within the industry. This transformative technology is not just about enhancing the capabilities of Hollywood; it's about broadening access to all creators. Further, AI’s impact on productivity, cost reduction, and operational efficiency is undeniable. AI is a powerful tool that will create more value and enhance human creativity, not replace it.
Wang underscored Vobile’s dedication to leveraging AI for content protection, highlighting the critical need to protect intellectual property in an era where digital piracy and unauthorized distribution are rampant as pirates are also leveraging AI. AI is not just a tool for protection; it guards the integrity and value of creative works.
Navigating AI-Generated Content and Copyright Law
Louis raised that one of the most pressing issues around AI is the legal and regulatory challenges posed by AI-generated content. As AI becomes more capable of creating original works, questions about copyright ownership and regulation inevitably arise. Wang argued that while copyright law will need to evolve to accommodate these new realities, human involvement remains crucial for maintaining the commercial value of content. AI-created content will require new forms of copyright protection, but human creativity and oversight will always be essential for true commercial success.
AI: Ubiquitous Problem-Solver and Opportunity Creator
Looking ahead, Wang envisions a future where AI is ubiquitous, solving problems and creating new opportunities across various industries. However, in regards to video content, he stressed that consumers will always want to be entertained. While AI will be everywhere, augmenting our capabilities and opening new horizons, the heart of entertainment lies in human creativity.
It is clear that AI will profoundly shape the future of entertainment. Vobile will continue to play a leading role in making creative content more valuable.