In response to the explosive popularity and interest in artificial intelligence, YouTube said it’s making some changes to its platform.
The video-sharing app said it’s rolling out new disclosure requirements and content labels to help viewers better identify videos that contain “altered or synthetic content.” Namely, creators must disclose when they’ve “created altered or synthetic content that is realistic, including using AI tools.” With the platform updates, creators will see new options to alert viewers if this is the case.
“All content uploaded to YouTube is subject to our Community Guidelines — regardless of how it’s generated—but we also know that AI will introduce new risks and will require new approaches,” YouTube said in a statement.
YouTube has had policies in place about “manipulated content” that may mislead viewers and “pose a serious risk of egregious harm.” AI presents a whole new suite of tools that have already been used in dishonest ways. Earlier this year, NPR pointed out the ease with which someone can create a deepfake — an image, sound or video that’s been altered with AI to make it look like someone (often celebrities) is doing or saying something that they haven’t.
With the new changes, YouTube also said it will make it possible to request the removal of AI-generated or other synthetic or altered content that simulates an identifiable individual, including their face or voice, using its privacy request process. Removal isn’t guaranteed, according to YouTube, because a number of factors are considered before taking a video down.
“[AI usage disclosure] is especially important in cases where the content discusses sensitive topics, such as elections, ongoing conflicts and public health crises, or public officials,” YouTube said.
Videos that contain sensitive content will receive a more prominent label, according to YouTube.
Creators who “consistently” choose not to use the labels run the risk of having their content removed and facing other penalties. YouTube said it would work with creators prior to the new mandates going into effect.
AI took centerstage over the last year after ChatGPT’s exploded in popularity. Companies have been scrambling to find ways to incorporate the technology. In the race to gain a competitive edge, warnings from experts have gone largely unheeded. As a result, ramifications of AI usage — and lack of regulation — is already being felt in the art, music, and publishing industries. AI was also a lynchpin issue when Hollywood writers and actors went on strike earlier this year.
Image credit: YouTube