The Munich I Regional Court ruled on November 11, 2025 (Case No. 42 O 14139/24) that AI-based text generators like ChatGPT are not allowed to use or reproduce lyrics of copyrighted works without appropriate permission. In the specific case, the reproduction of the lyrics “Atemlos” and “Männer” was the focus of the legal dispute.
Background of the Proceedings
The subject of the dispute was the unauthorized use of song lyrics
In the context of the legal dispute, a collection society that holds the rights to the aforementioned music works filed a lawsuit against the provider of the AI service. The background was that users of the platform were able to generate complete or nearly complete song lyrics using ChatGPT, which match or come very close to the original works. The rights holders claimed that such reproduction and public accessibility without appropriate licensing constitutes an infringement of their copyright position.
Court’s Decision
Reproduction of Copyright-Protected Texts Without License Prohibited
The Munich I Regional Court upheld the claim of the rights holders and made it clear that generating and making song lyrics accessible via an AI platform without a contractual permission or license constitutes an impermissible act of use under the Copyright Act. The judges explained that the operators bear independent responsibility for the use of copyright-protected content enabled by their technology, even if the contents are generated through user inquiries. The mere technical realization of the works by an AI does not exempt from compliance with existing protection rights.
Significance of Copyright Protection for AI-Based Services
The decision underscores the particular importance of copyright protection for artistic works in the digital environment. The court emphasized that the use of artificial intelligence does not entail any exception or privileging from the provisions of the Copyright Act. Rather, the fundamental principles of copyright protection must be consistently applied to AI-generated content if they reproduce or make publicly accessible significant parts of protected works. This particularly concerns offerings where the impression arises that rights holders cannot adequately control the use of their works.
Implications for Practice
Note on the Uncertainties Regarding AI-Generated Content
The decision illustrates that even in AI-based offerings in the field of text generation, clear copyright restrictions must be observed. It is not enough to rely on technical innovation or automation; instead, it must be ensured that existing protection rights are maintained. Open legal questions regarding the liability of platform operators and the examination of compliance with copyright regulations remain subject to judicial clarification and ongoing legal development. In the present case, it was a first-instance decision; in ongoing proceedings, the presumption of innocence generally applies. Source: https://urteile.news/LG-Muenchen-I_42-O-1413924_ChatGPT-darf-Liedtexte-wie-Atemlos-oder-Maenner-nicht-ohne-Lizenz-nutzen~N35553.
For companies or individuals faced with the use of AI systems and copyrighted content, it is advisable to carefully assess potential risks and examine each case individually. For complex issues concerning copyright and digital innovations, seeking sound support from experienced legal advisors can be beneficial. Further information and individual support can be found under copyright law legal advice.
