SAG-AFTRA Calls for Video Game Strikes Over AI Concerns – Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:EA)

The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Entertainers (SAG-AFTRA) has launched a strike that will affect all video game productions produced under the union's interactive media agreement.

The measures, which will take effect from 12:01 a.m. on July 26, involve well-known companies such as: Microsofts MSFT Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts EA, Sony Group Corporation.of Sony Insomniac Games, Warner Bros. Discovery WD WB Games, etc.

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AI protections at core of SAG-AFTRA strike

The main impetus for the strike is the inability to reach an agreement on AI protections, SAG-AFTRA president Fran Drescher “We will not agree to contracts that allow companies to abuse AI to the detriment of our members. When these companies seriously propose a contract that is acceptable to the way our members live and work, we stand ready to negotiate.”

in contrast, Audrey CoolingA spokesperson for the video game maker told The Verge: “We are disappointed that the union chose to withdraw when we were so close to an agreement, and we are ready to resume negotiations. We have already found common ground on 24 of our 25 proposals, including historic wage increases and additional safety provisions.”

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It added, “Our proposal directly responds to SAG-AFTRA's concerns and would expand meaningful AI protections, including requiring consent and fair compensation for all performers working under the IMA. These terms are among the strongest in the entertainment industry.”

Meanwhile, the strike includes a wide range of activities banned under SAG-AFTRA's directive, including singing, acting, dancing, performing motion capture, rehearsing and auditions.

The Wider Impact of the Video Game Strike

The seeds of the strike were sown last September when SAG-AFTRA members voted to authorize a walkout as a Hollywood actors and writers strike was dying down.

A major point of contention has been the use of AI, with fears that the technology will be used to replace human workers. Despite the strike, SAG-AFTRA has made some progress in addressing AI concerns by reaching a deal with AI voice company Replica Studios.

The agreement allows SAG-AFTRA members to work exclusively with Replica to create digital replicas of their own voices, with clear agreements on terms of use and compensation.

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Image courtesy of SAF-AFTRA.