Computer-Generated Works (CGWs)
Works created by a computer without a human author, subject to specific copyright considerations.
How the laws define this
Both sources establish the core definition of computer-generated works as creations produced by a computer in circumstances where there is no human author. Where these instruments diverge is in their specific regulatory context and statutory references. The Copyright and artificial intelligence statement of progress under Section 137 Data (Use and Access) Act frames the concept within the UK, focusing on a consultation that examines the continued relevance and scope of copyright protection for these works in light of rapid advancements in generative AI. In contrast, the Report on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence highlights the concept's established statutory basis, defining it specifically as a category currently recognized under Section 9(3) of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 (CDPA). Consequently, one source emphasizes future policy evaluation surrounding generative technologies, while the other grounds the term in existing legislative provisions.
Synthesised from the 2 statutory definitions below. Each one is quoted in full, with its source.
How jurisdictions differ
What is distinctive in each definition, binding law in force first.
| Jurisdiction | Instrument | Status | What is distinctive |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Report on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence | In Force | Explicitly ties CGWs to Section 9(3) of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 as a currently recognized legal category. |
| United Kingdom | Copyright and artificial intelligence statement of progress under Section 137 Data (Use and Access) Act | Under Review | Examines the continued relevance and scope of copyright protection for CGWs amid generative AI advancements. |
What it triggers
- Under the United Kingdom Report on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence, it sets out the UK Government's strategy for AI developers and rights holders by ruling out a broad text and data mining exception.source
- Under the Copyright and artificial intelligence statement of progress under Section 137 Data (Use and Access) Act, it outlines progress on AI and copyright policy, emphasizing licensing for AI training data.source
Definitions (2)
Computer-Generated Works (CGWs) are works created by a computer in circumstances where there is no human author. The statement, reflecting the consultation, examines the continued relevance and scope of copyright protection for such works in the UK, especially given the rapid advancements in generative AI.
Works created without a human author, a category currently recognized under Section 9(3) of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 (CDPA).
Questions and answers
What legal basis supports copyright for computer-generated works in the UK?
Definition [1] recognizes CGWs under Section 9(3) of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988. This category is currently in force per the 2026 Report on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence.
How does the UK view copyright for AI-generated works today?
Definition [2] describes CGWs as works created by a computer without a human author. The statement under review examines their continued relevance given generative AI advancements.
What UK policy addresses AI training and copyright?
The Report on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence rules out a broad text and data mining exception. The statement of progress emphasizes licensing for AI training data to balance innovation and creator rights.