Gamers Nexus YouTube channel at risk after Nvidia AI GPU smuggling video prompts copyright strike
Known for its blunt but trusted coverage of PC hardware, Gamers Nexus often faces controversy. Its latest spat is with Bloomberg, which has filed a copyright strike against the popular YouTube channel. The claim involves a brief segment of a video that investigated Nvidia AI GPU smuggling into China. Gamers Nexus used a clip of President Trump speaking on the topic from Bloomberg, but insists it falls under fair use.
The channel expected blowback from its exposé of unauthorized GPU shipments. Concerned that China could use the H20 Nvidia GPU chip to infringe on national security, the U.S. blocked exports in April. The ban has since been lifted, and President Trump’s comments about the resolution appeared in the Gamers Nexus story. Since the footage came from Bloomberg, it felt justified in claiming copyright infringement.
Editor-in-Chief Stephen Burke argues that the clip, which is only a brief part of a lengthy video, should qualify for fair use. The channel also added a voice-over to the widely covered appearance by the U.S. President. YouTube accepted a counter-claim from Gamers Nexus about the strike. Now, Bloomberg must file a lawsuit, or the AI GPU smuggling video could become accessible again within 10 days.
Why Bloomberg is targeting Gamers Nexus
Bloomberg’s motivations for the action are unclear, but Burke has several theories. The multinational media conglomerate also covered the illegal shipments of Nvidia GPUs. However, the video did not attract the same attention, with complaints that it lacked any insightful reporting. Traffic on the Bloomberg video fell sharply after the competing story went live. Even if it’s for 10 days, Bloomberg’s post would benefit from a rebound in viewership.
Gamers Nexus also speculates that Bloomberg’s ties to both Nvidia and China motivated the accusation. The outlet often promotes Nvidia products with sponsored content on its website. Additionally, Bloomberg has a large presence in China. Critics have accused the company of censoring stories that reflect poorly on the Chinese government.
YouTube can delete a channel if it receives three copyright strikes within a 90-day period. Still, lawyers who shared their opinion during the Gamers Nexus response suggest that Bloomberg’s case lacks merit.
