Tag: Google

In a move that underscores the escalating battle between generative AI and intellectual property rights, Google has started blocking prompts related to Disney characters across its AI platforms, including its Gemini models. This change comes shortly after The Walt Disney Company issued a legal warning claiming that Google’s AI was producing unauthorized content featuring Disney’s iconic characters.

According to reports, Disney’s legal team argued that Google’s AI tools were capable of generating images, videos, and other content involving characters from franchises like Frozen, Marvel, and Star Wars without permission. The company described this as copyright infringement on a “massive scale,” warning that such content could mislead users and harm Disney’s brand reputation.

Since the warning, Google has adjusted its AI systems. Users attempting to generate content featuring popular Disney characters have reported receiving error messages or refusals from the AI, signaling at least a partial compliance with Disney’s demands. Attempts to generate images of Elsa, Iron Man, or other recognizable Disney and Marvel characters may now be blocked entirely.

While Disney is cracking down on unlicensed AI-generated content, the company is also taking a more collaborative approach with some AI firms. Disney recently struck a multi-million-dollar licensing deal with OpenAI, giving the company official access to Disney characters for AI applications. This contrast highlights a strategic dual approach: protecting intellectual property through legal enforcement while enabling controlled, licensed AI collaborations.

Experts see this development as a key moment in the ongoing debate over AI-generated content and copyright law. The restrictions from Google’s AI tools signal that tech companies may need to adapt their systems to respect intellectual property, while navigating the growing demand for AI creativity.

Google is not alone. Other AI companies, including image generators and character-based AI platforms, have received similar warnings. At the same time. 

Tyler Perry’s psychological drama Straw has emerged as Nigeria’s most-searched movie of 2025, according to Google’s official Year in Search data.

The film, which stars Taraji P. Henson, as a desperate single mother pushed to her limits, dominated movie related searches in Nigeria throughout the year, outperforming both major Hollywood releases and popular Nollywood titles.

The ranking highlights the strong connection Nigerian audiences had with the film’s emotional themes and central performance.

At the core of Straw is a story about economic pressure, motherhood, survival, and moral choices under extreme stress; themes that strongly resonate with viewers in Nigeria.

Taraji P. Henson’s intense performance sparked widespread online conversation, with many viewers searching for:

• Plot explanations
• Reviews and reactions
• Character motivations
• Tyler Perry’s creative choices

Perry’s focus on family struggles, economic hardship, and emotional resilience aligns closely with themes that often trend well among Nigerian audiences, especially on streaming platforms and social media.

Google Year in Search

Google’s Year in Search rankings are based on search growth, not total views or box office numbers. This means Straw recorded the highest spike in interest among Nigerian users compared to other films released in 2025.

The list reflects what Nigerians were most curious about, the movies that drove conversations, debates, and repeat searches throughout the year.

Pixar’s Toy Story 5 is already generating massive anticipation. According to Google search data, the film is the third most searched movie of 2026, with over 301,000 searches per month. Even before its release, fans worldwide are eager to learn about the new adventures of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and the rest of the gang.

Release Date and Key Details

Toy Story 5 is officially set to hit theaters on June 19, 2026, making it one of the summer’s major animated releases. Directed by Pixar veteran Andrew Stanton (known for Finding Nemo and Wall‑E) and co-directed by Kenna Harris, the film continues Pixar’s tradition of storytelling that blends heart, humor, and family-friendly themes.

Key cast members returning include:

• Tom Hanks as Woody
• Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear
• Joan Cusack as Jessie
• Tony Hale as Forky

New additions include:

• Conan O’Brien as Smarty Pants, a new toy character
• Greta Lee as the high-tech tablet toy Lilypad

This mix of returning favorites and new voices has already piqued interest among fans, contributing to the film’s high search volume.

While Pixar keeps plot details mostly under wraps, early reports suggest that Toy Story 5 will explore how traditional toys compete with modern technology. The story centers around Bonnie’s toys facing their most significant challenge yet: a high-tech tablet toy called Lilypad, designed to capture children’s attention like never before.

Fans can expect Woody, Buzz, and Jessie to adapt to this new world while navigating humor, loyalty, and friendship themes. This “classic toys vs. tech toys” narrative makes the film relatable to families raising children in today’s digital era.

The fact that Toy Story 5 ranks as the third most searched film of 2026, behind only major franchises like Marvel and Spider-Man, is significant. High search volume can also predict box office success, as films with early online buzz often translate into high opening weekend ticket sales.

What the Trailer Reveals

The teaser trailer released earlier this year gives fans a glimpse of Woody and Buzz navigating a tech-dominated world. Lilypad’s introduction adds tension and humor, and the dynamics among classic toys highlight Pixar’s signature balance of heartfelt storytelling and comedy.