Meta Platforms Inc META has made a pivotal decision regarding manipulated media on its platforms. The company will now be introducing labels for AI-generated content on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.
Inclusion of Photos and Audio: Meta’s latest policy, revealed recently, is a direct response to recommendations from the company’s Oversight Board. This strategic shift broadens Meta’s approach to manipulated media by now covering photos and audio in addition to videos.
Historically, Meta’s manipulated media policy only applied to videos modified by AI to depict individuals saying things they never actually spoke.
The Oversight Board’s guidance urged Meta to adopt a less restrictive approach to content that does not breach the Community Standards. Hence, Meta will now label AI-generated content that meets specific criteria, rather than removing it outright.
Industry Collaboration and Implementation: Meta has been collaborating with industry partners to establish common technical standards for identifying AI-generated content. Consequently, the company will introduce “Made with AI” labels on AI-generated videos, audios, and images.
Upcoming Changes: Meta aims to begin labeling AI-generated content in May 2024 and will halt the sole reliance on its manipulated video policy for content removal by July.
Significance of the Policy: This move by Meta aligns with the growing concern over the potential for AI to disseminate misinformation. It also reflects Meta’s proactive stance in introducing labels for AI-generated media, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2024 election year.
Recent Developments: The announcement coincides with incidents highlighting the risk of AI in amplifying election misinformation, including an AI-generated robocall featuring President Joe Biden discouraging participation in New Hampshire’s primary election.
Meta affirms its commitment to retaining AI-generated content on its platforms, supplementing them with informational labels and context, unless they violate existing policies.