Intellectual Property Rights in the Era of Artificial Intelligence

Purpose: The general objective of this study was to explore Intellectual Property Rights in the era of Artificial Intelligence. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to Intellectual Property Rights in the era of Artificial Intelligence. Preliminary empirical review revealed that the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed the landscape of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), presenting both opportunities and challenges. It highlighted that traditional IP laws are increasingly inadequate to address the complexities introduced by AI-generated content, necessitating a rethinking of existing frameworks. The study emphasized the need for recognizing AI's role in the creation of new works and inventions and the importance of developing balanced approaches to protect both human and AI contributions. Ethical considerations, such as accountability, transparency, and fairness, were also deemed crucial in ensuring responsible AI use. Overall, the study called for a comprehensive and proactive approach to integrate AI into IPR, ensuring robust protections while fostering innovation. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Technological Determinism Theory, Innovation Diffusion Theory and Legal Realism Theory may be used to anchor future studies on Intellectual Property Rights in the era of Artificial Intelligence. The study recommended revising existing IP laws to explicitly include AI-generated content and inventions, clarifying criteria for authorship and inventorship. It suggested expanding theoretical frameworks to accommodate AI contributions, emphasizing the collaborative nature of human and AI creativity. Practical measures, such as enhanced cybersecurity and legal safeguards for AI-generated trade secrets, were advised. Policy-wise, the study advocated for international cooperation to harmonize IP laws concerning AI. Developing ethical guidelines for responsible AI use and implementing education programs to inform stakeholders about AI and IP implications were also recommended. These measures aimed to create a balanced IP framework supporting innovation while protecting the rights of all stakeholders.