Mickey Mouse is Now Public Domain & NYT Sues Microsoft and OpenAI for Billions
Jan 2, 2024
26:13
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Discussion on the public domain status of Mickey Mouse and its implications for Disney. The New York Times sues Microsoft and OpenAI for billions. Stock market predictions and the rise of Bitcoin. New laws impacting everyday people including EV tax credits and minimum wage increases. The Seinfeld Law in New Jersey and the viral success of the PopTart Bowl.
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Quick takeaways
The ritualistic sacrifice of a life-sized PopTart mascot during the PopTart Bowl generated $12.1 million in brand value, showcasing the marketing success of the event.
After 95 years, Mickey Mouse and other copyrighted works published in 1928 have entered the public domain, sparking discussions about the balance between preserving historical works and spurring creativity.
Deep dives
PopTart Bowl Generates Buzz and Brand Value
The PopTart Bowl, a college football bowl game sponsored by Kellogg's PopTart brand, made headlines with its ritualistic sacrifice of a life-sized PopTart mascot. The event generated nearly $12.1 million in brand value for PopTart, far exceeding the $2 million sponsorship cost. The viral nature of the event, including the transformation of the mascot into a real edible PopTart, sparked widespread online conversation and memes, showcasing the marketing success of the event.
Mickey Mouse Enters Public Domain
After 95 years, Mickey Mouse and thousands of other copyrighted works published in 1928 have entered the public domain. This means that characters or stories can be remade without permission from the original copyright holder. While the original 1928 version of Mickey Mouse is now in the public domain, newer versions and trademarked expressions of Mickey Mouse are still under Disney's ongoing protection. The move has sparked discussions about the length of copyright protection and the balance between preserving historical works and spurring creativity.
Highlights of New Year Laws
The beginning of the new year has brought several new laws into effect. Some notable changes include stricter eligibility requirements for electric vehicle tax credits in the US, where only 19 EV models now qualify for the full $7,500 federal tax credit. Additionally, minimum wages have been raised in 22 states and about 40 cities and counties. New Jersey has also introduced laws to regulate telemarketing, requiring telemarketers to disclose their identity, employer, and contact information within the first 30 seconds of a call. These new laws aim to address various issues and bring changes to different sectors of society.
Episode 226: Happy 2024! Neal and Toby are back and are discussing why the Steamboat Willie version of Mickey Mouse is now public domain and what that means for Disney. Plus, the New York Times is suing OpenAI and Microsoft and alleging billions in damages. Apple is selling their watch despite trademark issues and what can we expect from the stock market in the near future? Next, what new state laws take place in the new year and why are Pop-Tarts so viral right now? Finally, here is what to expect this week.