Yes, you can legally use AI-generated images, but there are a few important factors to consider regarding ownership, copyright, and potential restrictions.

Ownership and Copyright

• Differs by Tool/Platform – The rights to AI-generated images depend on the terms of service of the platform or tool you’re using. Some AI platforms (like DALL·E or MidJourney) grant users full rights to the images they generate, while others might impose certain limitations on commercial use or require attribution.
• No Copyright for AI Creators – AI-generated works may not have the same copyright protection as works created entirely by humans. In the U.S., copyright law traditionally requires human authorship, so AI-generated works might not be eligible for copyright protection unless a human creator is involved in the process.

Commercial Use

• Check the License – If you plan to use AI-generated images for commercial purposes (like marketing materials, websites, etc.), you should check the specific licensing terms of the AI tool you’re using. Some platforms may allow commercial use without restrictions, while others may have clauses that restrict commercial usage or require a specific license for such purposes.

Trademark and Brand Concerns

• Avoid Infringement – Even though AI-generated images can be original, they might unintentionally resemble existing trademarked logos, brands, or copyrighted characters. If you’re using AI-generated content commercially, it’s important to ensure that the images do not infringe on existing intellectual property.

Ethical Considerations

• Bias and Authenticity – Some AI tools may generate images that reflect biases or ethical concerns. It’s important to review the content for any potential issues that could arise in terms of representation, authenticity, or harm.

Attribution

• Requirement Differs – Some platforms may require attribution when you use AI-generated images, while others may not. Be sure to review the licensing or terms of service of the specific tool you’re using to understand if attribution is needed.

You can legally use AI-generated images, but it depends on the platform’s terms of service, and you should always ensure the use is in compliance with any licensing agreements, especially if you’re using them for commercial purposes. Be cautious about trademark and ethical issues when incorporating AI-generated content into your work. Always review the platform’s specific terms to be certain.