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AI

WordPress.com Adds AI Assistant for Website Editing & Design

by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor February 17, 2026

written by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor

WordPress.com users now have a new tool at their disposal: a built-in AI assistant designed to simplify website creation and content management. Announced Tuesday, the feature allows site owners to make adjustments to their websites using natural language commands, promising a more intuitive and efficient workflow. This integration marks a significant step in bringing artificial intelligence directly into the core experience of one of the world’s most popular website platforms.

The AI assistant is designed to understand the existing content and layout of a WordPress.com site, enabling users to modify elements with simple instructions. Instead of complex coding or precise prompts, users can employ conversational language – for example, requesting the assistant to “make this section feel more modern and spacious,” or to “change my site’s colors to be brighter and bolder,” according to Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com. This accessibility aims to empower users of all technical skill levels to refine their online presence.

Beyond aesthetic adjustments, the AI assistant can also assist with content creation and editing. Users can ask the tool to rewrite text for a more confident tone, translate sections into different languages, or even generate image suggestions for blog posts. The functionality extends to layout modifications, allowing users to add elements like contact pages or testimonial sections with a simple command. However, it’s vital to note that these adjustments currently perform exclusively with WordPress’s block themes and are not available for those using classic themes.

The AI’s editing capabilities are further enhanced through integration with the block notes editor introduced in WordPress 6.9. Users can now access the AI assistant directly within the editor by typing “@ai” followed by their request. The AI will then provide responses, including relevant links and sources where applicable, fostering a collaborative and informed content creation process. WordPress.com’s official blog post details these features.

Visual content creation is also receiving an AI boost. The assistant leverages Google Gemini’s Nano Banana AI models to generate and edit images directly within the Media Library. Users can specify image requirements, such as aspect ratios and stylistic preferences, using the new “Generate Image” button. This integration streamlines the process of finding or creating visuals that align with a site’s branding and aesthetic.

How to Enable the WordPress AI Assistant

The WordPress AI Assistant is an opt-in feature, giving users control over whether or not to utilize the new functionality. To enable it, users can navigate to their Sites list, select their site name, and then access the Settings menu. Within Settings, they should scroll down to the “AI tools” section and toggle the “Enable AI assistant” setting on. Customers who have purchased a website through the WordPress.com AI website builder will find the assistant automatically enabled.

The introduction of this AI assistant builds upon Automattic’s existing AI initiatives, including the AI website builder previously released. TechCrunch reports that this new tool is designed to work inside the website, understanding its unique context, unlike standalone AI applications.

Implications for WordPress Users

This integration represents a broader trend of AI tools becoming increasingly embedded within popular content management systems. By offering AI assistance directly within the WordPress.com environment, Automattic aims to lower the barrier to entry for website customization and content creation. The ability to make changes with natural language commands could be particularly beneficial for users who are not comfortable with coding or complex design processes.

Looking ahead, the evolution of this AI assistant will likely focus on expanding its capabilities and refining its understanding of individual website contexts. Further integration with other WordPress features and potential support for additional languages and themes are also likely developments. As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more sophisticated tools emerge to empower website owners and content creators.

What are your thoughts on the integration of AI into WordPress.com? Share your comments below and let us know how you plan to use this new feature!

February 17, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Seedance 2.0: ByteDance AI Video Generator Faces Copyright Concerns from Hollywood

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor February 17, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

The burgeoning world of artificial intelligence-generated video is facing its first major Hollywood showdown. Seedance 2.0, a latest AI video generator developed by ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, has quickly drawn the ire of major studios due to concerns over potential copyright infringement. The platform’s ability to create ultra-realistic videos from text prompts, including depictions resembling recognizable celebrities, has sparked a swift response from industry leaders.

Seedance 2.0’s appeal lies in its accessibility and the quality of its output. Users can generate videos featuring convincingly realistic people and scenarios simply by typing in a description. However, this ease of use has raised significant questions about intellectual property rights, particularly as viral videos surfaced online featuring likenesses of prominent figures like Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt in fabricated scenarios, including one depicting them discussing the Jeffrey Epstein case, as reported by Business Insider.

ByteDance has responded to the growing criticism, stating it will implement additional safeguards to prevent unauthorized use of copyrighted material. “ByteDance respects intellectual property rights and we have heard the concerns regarding Seedance 2.0,” a spokesperson said in a statement, as CNBC reported on February 16, 2026. “We are taking steps to strengthen existing protections to prevent the unauthorized use of intellectual property and likeness by users.”

The response follows a strong warning from the Motion Picture Association (MPA), which represents major Hollywood studios including Netflix, Disney, Sony, Universal, and Warner Bros. Discovery. The MPA publicly called on ByteDance to cease what it termed “activities infringing copyright,” according to NBC News. Disney also sent a direct warning letter to ByteDance, alleging the distribution and reproduction of its intellectual property through the AI tool without permission.

Disney’s letter specifically accused ByteDance of equipping Seedance with a library of copyrighted characters obtained illegally, presenting them as if they were in the public domain. Paramount Skydance, also a member of the MPA, issued a similar warning. This coordinated action underscores the seriousness with which Hollywood is approaching the potential threat posed by AI-powered video generation.

The situation highlights the complex legal and ethical challenges presented by rapidly advancing AI technology. While AI video generators offer exciting creative possibilities, they also raise concerns about the protection of intellectual property and the potential for misuse. The outcome of this dispute could set a significant precedent for the regulation of AI-generated content and the balance between innovation and copyright law.

It remains to be seen how ByteDance will refine Seedance 2.0’s safeguards and whether these measures will satisfy Hollywood’s concerns. The industry will be closely watching to observe if similar actions will be taken against other AI video generation platforms. The ongoing dialogue between technology companies and content creators will be crucial in shaping the future of AI and its role in the entertainment landscape.

What are your thoughts on the use of AI in video creation? Share your opinions in the comments below.

February 17, 2026 0 comments

News

Darron Lee: $50M Lawsuit Filed in Girlfriend’s Death, Murder Charge

by James Carter Senior News Editor February 16, 2026

written by James Carter Senior News Editor

A $50 million wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against former Ohio State football player Darron Lee in connection with the death of his girlfriend, Gabriella Perpetuo. The civil complaint, filed February 12 in Hamilton County, Tennessee, alleges a “violent physical struggle” led to Perpetuo’s death on February 5 at a home near Chattanooga. Lee, 41, is currently charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence in the case, and prosecutors are considering whether to pursue the death penalty, according to reports.

Perpetuo, 29, suffered catastrophic injuries prior to her death, including a broken neck and back, multiple stab wounds, and significant head trauma, the lawsuit states. The family is seeking $50 million in damages, as well as coverage of funeral expenses. This legal action follows a preliminary hearing where evidence presented challenged Lee’s initial account of the events.

Details Emerging from the Investigation

A Hamilton County Sheriff’s detective testified on February 11 that physical evidence found at the scene contradicted Lee’s claim that Perpetuo fell in the shower. The detective reportedly stated that blood evidence was present in nearly every room of the home, and there were indications someone had attempted to clean the area, WSYX reports. The lawsuit alleges Perpetuo endured a “violent physical struggle and intentional assault” resulting in her injuries.

Lee’s Background and Previous Legal Issues

Lee’s athletic career began at New Albany High School, where he excelled as a linebacker before joining Ohio State’s football team. He played a key role in the 2014 national championship-winning team and was named the defensive MVP of the 2015 Sugar Bowl. He was then drafted by the New York Jets in the first round of the 2016 NFL draft, Local 3 News detailed. He last played professionally in 2020.

Prior to the current charges, Lee faced legal challenges in Franklin County, Ohio. In 2023, he was charged with domestic violence following an incident with a family member. The Chattanooga Times Free Press reported that during the investigation of that incident, Dublin police also learned of a separate alleged incident involving the mother of Lee’s child. He ultimately pleaded guilty to reduced charges in 2025 and was placed on probation.

Next Steps in the Legal Process

Lee is currently being held without bond. His next court date is scheduled for March 9. Prosecutors have indicated that the charges against him are eligible for the death penalty, but a final decision on whether to pursue that option has not yet been made. The case is being closely watched, given Lee’s profile as a former professional athlete and the severity of the allegations.

The outcome of this case will depend heavily on the evidence presented and the arguments made by both the prosecution and the defense. As the legal proceedings unfold, further details regarding the circumstances surrounding Perpetuo’s death are expected to emerge. The public and legal observers will be closely following developments in this case as it progresses through the Tennessee court system.

If you or someone you realize is experiencing domestic violence, resources are available. You can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit their website at https://www.thehotline.org/.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as they turn into available.

February 16, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Hollywood Protests TikTok Owner’s AI Video Tool Over Copyright Concerns

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor February 16, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Hollywood is bracing for a potential disruption as a new artificial intelligence video generator developed by ByteDance, the Chinese company behind TikTok, raises serious copyright concerns. The tool, Seedance 2.0, is capable of creating remarkably realistic videos from simple text prompts, and has already sparked a backlash from major studios who allege widespread unauthorized use of their intellectual property. The situation highlights the growing tension between the rapid advancement of AI technology and the established rights of content creators.

The Motion Picture Association (MPA), representing giants like Netflix, Paramount, Sony, and Disney, issued a strong statement accusing Seedance 2.0 of “massive” copyright infringement. Videos generated by the AI have gone viral, showcasing characters and scenes reminiscent of popular films and television shows, leading studios to fear a flood of unauthorized content. This isn’t simply about imitation; the technology’s ability to convincingly replicate likenesses is at the heart of the dispute.

Seedance 2.0 allows users to generate high-quality AI videos using text prompts, and has been available only in China. However, examples circulating online demonstrate the tool’s capacity to create scenes featuring recognizable characters, prompting concerns about the unauthorized use of copyrighted material. One widely shared example depicted a simulated fight between Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt, quickly drawing the attention of Hollywood executives and legal teams. The MPA stated that in a single day, the service engaged in unauthorized use of U.S. Copyrighted works on a massive scale, according to a statement reported by Variety.

ByteDance has responded to the criticism, stating they respect intellectual property rights and are taking steps to strengthen safeguards. The company has suspended a feature allowing users to upload images of real people, acknowledging the potential for misuse. “We are taking steps to strengthen current safeguards as we function to prevent the unauthorized use of intellectual property and likeness by users,” a ByteDance spokesperson said, as reported by CNBC. They maintain that the infringing content was created during a limited testing phase.

Hollywood Voices Concerns

The concerns extend beyond legal ramifications to the very future of creative work. Rhett Reese, a screenwriter known for his work on the Deadpool movies, expressed a bleak outlook on the situation. “I hate to say it. Seemingly it’s over for us,” Reese posted on X, adding that he feared the technology could revolutionize – or even destroy – Hollywood, as Al Jazeera reported. He expressed concern for the livelihoods of those working in the industry, including his own.

Other creatives echoed Reese’s anxieties. Heather Anne Campbell, a writer for Saturday Night Live and Rick & Morty, likened the AI-generated content to “fan fiction,” suggesting that while the technology can create visuals, it still relies on human creativity for original ideas. She argued that access to AI visualization tools gives users the power to create anything they imagine, but the output often lacks the nuance and originality of human-driven storytelling.

The Technology Behind Seedance 2.0

Seedance 2.0 is being lauded for its ability to generate incredibly realistic video clips from simple text prompts. Forbes described the tool as offering a level of creative control comparable to that of a human director, allowing users to produce high-quality results without complex production tools. The technology’s ease of use and impressive output quality are what make it both appealing and alarming to the entertainment industry.

The MPA, led by CEO Charles Rivkin, has demanded that ByteDance immediately cease its infringing activity, arguing that the company is disregarding established copyright law and jeopardizing millions of American jobs. Rivkin emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of creators and the economic impact of the entertainment industry, as detailed in the MPA’s public statement.

ByteDance is actively working to address the concerns, implementing safeguards to prevent unauthorized use of intellectual property. However, the incident underscores the challenges of regulating AI-generated content and protecting copyright in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The situation with Seedance 2.0 is likely to set a precedent for how AI and copyright law will intersect in the future.

The long-term implications of this technology remain to be seen. As AI video generation becomes more sophisticated and accessible, the debate over copyright, creative control, and the future of Hollywood will undoubtedly continue. The industry will be closely watching ByteDance’s next steps and the development of similar AI tools to determine how best to navigate this new era of content creation.

What are your thoughts on the impact of AI on the entertainment industry? Share your opinions in the comments below.