We have recently updated our license documentation to make it easier for you to find information about your specific usage.
This update specifically addresses the usage of 3D models labeled "Editorial Use Only," providing clarity on their restrictions and permissions.
"Editorial Use Only" models depict branded or trademarked products owned by other companies. These models are intended for use in newsworthy or editorial contexts, such as journalism or documentaries. For any non-editorial purposes, explicit permission from the intellectual property (IP) owner is required. The marketplace does not provide clearance for non-editorial uses. However, in certain very limited instances, you may otherwise have the rights to IP in content that is labeled Editorial. For instance, you may be the advertising agency for a brand/IP owner or you may be the brand/IP owner itself purchasing content. If that is the case, you may use the Editorial content commercially, assuming you have the rights clearance through other means. But, you must have all the intellectual property rights necessary from the IP in the content and this is usually only the case for a brand/IP owner vendor or for a brand/IP owner itself. As a rule of thumb, if you wonder if you have these rights, you don’t. It is usually very clearly set forth in a contract. The burden and risk of confirming these rights is on each user individually if they move away from the Editorial Use restrictions.
FAQs
Can I use "Editorial Use Only" models in a video game?
No, using these models in video games is considered a commercial use and is prohibited unless you obtain explicit permission from the IP owner.
What should I do if I want to use a model for advertising?
Advertising is a prohibited use for "Editorial Use Only" models. You must contact the IP owner to request permission.
Are there any exceptions for educational institutions?
Educational and research applications are generally considered acceptable uses of “Editorial Use Only” models when they support legitimate academic objectives. For example:
A university computer engineering student may use a 3D model of a Stadler KISS train labeled for Editorial Use to demonstrate layering techniques in computer animation. Similarly, a high school technology teacher might use a 3D model of Spider-Man, also labeled for Editorial Use, to facilitate a classroom discussion on animation principles.
Prohibited Uses for "Editorial Use Only" Models
Products may not be used on any item/product for re-sale, such as a video game or t-shirt.
Products may not be used as part of billboard, trade show or exhibit display.
Products may not be used in any defamatory, libelous or otherwise unlawful manner whether directly or in context or juxtaposition with specific subject matter.
The material may not be incorporated into a logo, trademark or service mark. For example, you can’t use Editorial content to create a logo design.
The material may not be used for any commercial, non-news related purpose.
Modifying the model to remove or obscure the depicted intellectual property is prohibited.
Allowed Uses for "Editorial Use Only" Models
News Reporting: Use in broadcast, online, or print journalism.
Documentaries: Inclusion in documentary films or series.
Academic and Research Contexts: Use in teaching, scholarship, or research.
Rights Holder or Official Licensee Use: Use by the IP owner or an official licensee with explicit written permission, as allowed under the standard 3D Model License. Please visit our Royalty Free License page to review editorial usage information, specific license terms, or to get answers to our most frequently asked questions.