I don't think there are actually major legal concerns. Copyright protects reproduction of a specific image. Looking at an image and producing something in a similar style is not copyright infringement, it's called being an artist. The law on this seems pretty clear.
The UK recently announced plans to make this completely explicit, to remove any remaining doubt:
"For text and data mining, we plan to introduce a new copyright and database exception which allows TDM for any purpose. Rights holders will still have safeguards to protect their content, including a requirement for lawful access."
Google's arrogance here is astonishing. The police say no fault, and it's the subject of an NYT investigation, and they still won't restore the account. What hope do the rest of us have?
I've been an Android user for a long time, but I think this might finally push me to switch to Apple. I'm just disgusted by this.
The UK recently announced plans to make this completely explicit, to remove any remaining doubt: "For text and data mining, we plan to introduce a new copyright and database exception which allows TDM for any purpose. Rights holders will still have safeguards to protect their content, including a requirement for lawful access."
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/artificial-intel...