Technological advancements can extend the possibilities for exploiting intellectual property beyond what was envisioned when an initial agreement was formed. Courts often interpret licensing agreements to include new forms of media if the original contract was broad and did not restrict exploitation methods, both current and future, at the time of its signing.
For example: If an artist signs a contract granting a record label the right to distribute their music ‘by any methods now known or developed in the future’, it could likely include streaming services, even though they weren’t available at the contract’s signing.