Hasbro releases AI versions of its iconic characters, including Transformers

Source Domain: www.cbc.ca

Hasbro has introduced artificial intelligence (AI) versions of 12 popular characters from its brands, including Transformers’ Optimus Prime and Megatron, G.I. Joe’s Cobra Commander, and Clue characters.
The AI-generated characters are available for enterprise use cases and can act as interactive brand ambassadors, including for customer service interactions.
The initiative addresses the issue of unauthorized AI versions of its characters seen across various platforms.
The project is executed through Sixth Wall, a new AI studio, and partners with ElevenLabs for human-AI interaction.
A new type of intellectual property licensing called “behavioural licensing” is being introduced, governed by a system called CharacterOS with safety guardrails.
Hasbro specifies the AI content is intended for ages 13 and up and emphasizes its commitment to contributing to industry discussions on safety standards for AI-enabled play.
Experts express concerns about the potential for parasocial relationships, persuading children who may confuse AI characters with real people, and the risk of unauthorized data collection and use in advertising.
Some worry that fictional characters’ behavior now falls under intellectual property, raising questions about authenticity and the commercialization of beloved brands.

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