This Week in Tech (Audio) TWiT 1053: Robotic Lap Trimmer - Sony, Cox, & ISP Liability for User Copyright Infringement
Oct 13, 2025
Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, a senior reporter at The Verge specializing in smart home tech, discusses the troubling transformation of Amazon's Echo Show into an advertising platform. Cathy Gellis, a tech attorney, analyzes the implications of ongoing lawsuits against ISPs over user copyright infringement and concerns about the Supreme Court's recent rulings. Pulitzer-winning journalist Gary Rivlin shares insights on the rapid growth of AI and its economic impacts, while the group debates the ethical ramifications of AI-generated content featuring deceased celebrities.
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Solicitor General Shift Changed Cert Outcome
- Cathy described certiorari being granted in Cox v. Sony after unusual Solicitor General involvement.
- The Trump solicitor general unexpectedly filed a brief that helped Cox obtain review.
ISPs Face New Copyright Liability Risks
- The Cox v. Sony case forces a reexamination of ISP liability under the DMCA and repeat-infringer policies.
- Removing safe-harbor protection for ISPs risks mass disconnections and chilling of speech online.
Don't Auto-Terminate Based On Allegations
- Avoid automated termination policies that cut subscribers based only on notices without adjudication.
- ISPs should implement careful, evidence-based procedures before disconnecting users to prevent wrongful service loss.
