Happy New Year (Plus a new Public Domain development)

Hi Agung,

Happy New Years!

You might have heard that as of January 1, 2024, the 1928 version of Mickey Mouse from "Steamboat Willie" is now freely available in the US public domain.

This opens up cool opportunities for those wanting to add some classic vibes to their affiliate marketing or YouTube ads.

However, it's very important to understand the boundaries.

While Mickey Mouse (1928) is in the public domain, Disney's trademark on the character remains strong. This means any use of the 1928 version must clearly differentiate from Disney's later versions.

Now, what does this mean for you as an affiliate marketer or YouTube content creator?

When promoting products or creating content, ensure that any use of Steamboat Willie is distinct and non-infringing.

This could mean reimagining Mickey with a new voice or simply utilizing his silent, whistling persona from the original film.

As you brainstorm creative ways to integrate public domain characters like Mickey into your campaigns, remember to consider other iconic figures like Hercules, Dracula, and Snow White.

Loads of inspiration there, just stick to their original, public domain forms.

Using public domain characters creatively can set your content apart, though you need to make it relevant, otherwise it's not really going to help you.

And whatever you do, NEVER make it seem like Disney is endorsing the product you're promoting.

Always make sure your work is genuinely original and not misleadingly connected to protected versions.

My recommendation is not to use this character in your online marketing, as it could be confused with endorsement, and instead keep pushing the boundaries of your creative and marketing endeavors.

That said if you do decide to use Mickey in your marketing, please be very careful in the way in which you use the Steamboat Willie edition so that it's original and clearly not done by Disney in your depiction.

May this year bring you unprecedented success.

Kind regards,

Mark Ling

Founder of Traffic Travis
https://www.traffictravis.com


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