AI and Creativity: A New Alliance Takes Shape

The Digital Entertainment Group (DEG) has just introduced DEG. AI, a new alliance aimed at guiding the media and entertainment industry through the AI revolution. The focus is on using AI to boost human creativity, not replace it. AI is changing the game in animation, post-production, and more. But it's also causing some worry. People in the creative field are concerned about job security and copyright protection. With contract talks coming up in 2026, these issues are becoming even more important. OpenAI's Sora 2 video model is the latest example of AI causing a stir. It's drawn responses from big names like Bryan Cranston and the estate of Martin Luther King Jr. Even though OpenAI added some safeguards, the anxiety in Hollywood isn't going away anytime soon. Ian Fried, a media and tech executive, will lead the new organization. He's also the general counsel for DEG. Fried's vision is to create a community where creators, technologists, and media leaders can work together. The goal is to make sure AI supports human creativity, not replaces it. The DEG has been around for 28 years, guiding its members through big changes like the shift from VHS to DVD and then to streaming. Now, it's tackling AI. The DEG. AI effort includes a steering committee and dedicated working groups. They'll focus on things like AI in production workflows, standards development, and compliance. The alliance will be part of DEG events, including membership meetings and EntTech Fest. It's a big step towards integrating AI into the industry in a way that benefits everyone.