Getty Images shows the inimitable value of an OpenAI photobomb

An FT comment argues that OpenAI's image model, trained on Shutterstock, accidentally generated photos with Getty Images watermarks. The blunder became Getty's best ad: high-quality licensed content can't be replaced by synthetic data. The more AI firms rely on cheap stock libraries, the stronger Getty's scarcity premium looks.

Why it matters: FT's take is sharp: reframes an AI watermark glitch as an accidental proof of Getty's premium value. Has a concrete incident and an industry-level argument, not just opinion. Downside: it's commentary, not breaking news, and the FT paywall limits full access.