The Technology Platform

On 7 May 2026, the Council of the EU announced that a provisional political agreement had been reached with the European Parliament on the “AI Omnibus” (part of the EU’s Digital Omnibus simplification agenda) to streamline parts of the EU AI Act ahead of key compliance deadlines.

The European Court of Justice has delivered its long-awaited ruling in Pelham II, providing the first authoritative EU definition of "pastiche" in copyright law. The decision has implications for rights holders and other creators, particularly in the context of AI.

We work with numerous creators exploring new ground through innovative approaches to technology and the future role of art. One such artist is illustrator George Fox, who has taken an entrepreneurial approach to his relationship with AI.

The UK Government has launched the Sovereign AI Fund to accelerate homegrown AI innovation and compete globally. Combining venture capital speed with state backing, the initiative offers funding, compute access, and fast-track visas for top talent. The move could reshape the UK’s startup ecosystem, influence venture capital dynamics, and strengthen its position as a global hub for AI development.

Welcome to the latest edition of our UPC update. In this edition, we report on key developments ranging from the court's ongoing consideration of its long-arm jurisdiction (including the first reference made by the UPC to the European Court of Justice) to a significant decision of the Court of Appeal confirming that, where a claimant has litigation insurance (with robust anti-avoidance endorsement) in place, this should mean that no security for costs is necessary, thereby eliminating the need in such cases for cash deposits or bank guarantees. We also cover the latest anti-suit injunction granted by the UPC, and important decisions relating to confidentiality and access to documents.

The UK Government has published its report on GenAI and copyright. The report confirms there will be no immediate reform to UK copyright law, with the previously proposed text and data mining exception with rights holder opt-out no longer the Government's preferred option. A consultation on deepfakes will be published this Summer and protection for computer-generated works is likely to be removed.

A global shortage of key components is forcing manufacturers to make difficult commercial decisions. Contracts drafted before the surge may no longer be viable, making pricing mechanisms and hardship clauses essential. Strategic planning and diversification can help reduce exposure.

The UK Supreme Court has handed down its much anticipated decision in Emotional Perception AI Limited v Comptroller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks. The decision changes how patent applications and granted patents relating to artificial neural networks (ANNs), AI, and computer implemented inventions (as well as other categories) are to be assessed.

The EU AI Act imposes obligations on providers and deployers of AI systems in the EU, with the requirements differing depending on the role of the relevant business, and the type of AI system involved. Businesses applying their trade mark to someone else's AI system may find that, by doing so, they become a provider, as opposed to deployer, thereby making them responsible for more onerous compliance and regulatory obligations.

The House of Lords Communications and Digital Committee has published a report on AI, copyright and the creative industries, unequivocally recommending that the Government rule out a commercial text and data mining exception with rightsholder opt-out, and instead adopt a 'licensing-first' approach that provides a framework for both the creative industries and the AI sector to thrive.

Recent and incoming changes to the legal landscape around remuneration and equity incentives make this an ideal time for brands to revisit their reward strategy for 2026 and beyond.