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European Commission launches stakeholder consultation on AI Act opt-out protocols for text and data mining
The European Commission has launched a stakeholder consultation and call for expression of interest to support the implementation of Measure 1.3 of the General-Purpose AI (GPAI) Code of Practice, focusing on how providers of general-purpose AI models must identify and comply with copyright opt-outs for text and data mining (TDM).

EU invests over €307 million into artificial intelligence and related technologies
The European Commission has launched two new Horizon Europe calls worth €307.3 million to strengthen Europe’s digital innovation, with major investment in trustworthy AI, data services, robotics, quantum technologies, and strategic digital autonomy. Open until 15 April 2026, the calls support businesses, public bodies, and research organisations working to advance sustainable, human-centric digital technologies across the EU.

EU telecom reform leaves industry divided over network funding
The European Commission has unveiled its Digital Networks Act to modernise EU telecoms, speed up fibre and reduce reliance on foreign tech. The plan opens the door for future changes, and has drawn criticism from all sides.

Publishers move to intervene as class representatives in action against Google’s generative AI training
Two major publishers, Cengage Group and Hachette Book Group, have moved to intervene in the Google Generative AI copyright litigation, seeking to represent publishers whose works were allegedly used without authorisation in AI training. Their involvement aims to strengthen the case by ensuring that publishers’ rights, licensing practices, and ownership interests are clearly and independently represented.

Kay Page to join FOCAL International as Managing Director
Kay Page will join FOCAL International as Managing Director from February 2026, bringing over 25 years of experience in audiovisual rights management, archives, and commercial licensing. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for FOCAL, with a strong focus on expanding events, training, and support for the global archive community.

WIPO: Launch of the World Intellectual Property Report 2026 in Geneva, on February 17, 2026, at 2 PM
WIPO will launch the 2026 edition of its World Intellectual Property Report, Technology on the Move, at a hybrid event in Geneva on 17 February 2026, bringing together policymakers and experts to explore technology diffusion and innovation-led growth. The launch will feature presentations from WIPO’s senior leadership, an expert panel discussion, and multilingual interpretation to support broad international participation.

Agence France-Presse and Getty Images sign multi-year renewal of longstanding global content partnership
Agence France-Presse and Getty Images have renewed their longstanding global content partnership, extending a collaboration that has delivered trusted, real-time coverage of news, sport, and entertainment since 2003. The multi-year renewal reinforces a shared commitment to journalistic excellence, authenticity, and wide-reaching visual storytelling for newsrooms worldwide.

Copyright & AI: what does the economics actually say?
A new European Parliament study explores how copyright policy should adapt to AI training, highlighting the economic importance of protecting incentives for future creative work. The research argues that sustainable AI development depends on fair compensation models that support creators, consumers, and long-term innovation.

CEPIC 2026
Building on the success of previous years, CEPIC 2026 promises to be our most exciting event yet. Three days of business, connection, and inspiration in the vibrant city of Valencia, Spain. This unmissable gathering brings together visual media professionals to explore new opportunities, share ideas, and shape the future of the image licensing industry.