YouTube unveiled a new feature as part of its website upgrade today, requiring content creators to disclose their use of artificial intelligence (A.I.) in crafting their content during the “returning times.”
If a creator confirms the use of A.I. in their video production, a distinct logo visible to viewers may be appended to their post.
The update announcement stated, “In the upcoming months, we will introduce enhancements that notify viewers when the content they are viewing is artificially generated.”
Furthermore, it was clarified that the labeling requirement applies to “realistic” content, encompassing both full-length videos and YouTube Shorts. However, the term “realistic” remains broadly defined, with more details on the affected content expected to follow.
The blog post mentioned, “Specifically, creators will be asked to indicate when they have generated modified or synthetic content that appears authentic, including through the use of A.I. tools.”
“We will provide creators with new choices during content uploads to indicate whether it includes realistically altered or synthetic material.” This may involve videos produced by A.I. that convincingly portray fictional scenarios or content depicting individuals saying or doing things they did not actually do.
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The announcement also outlined that “sensitive topics” encompass material related to elections, ongoing conflicts, health, and more.
YouTube affirmed its commitment to addressing audio content enhanced by artificial intelligence, particularly content mimicking a creator’s voice, and cracking down on frequently generated A.I. content.
Furthermore, A.I.-generated audio content emulating a musician’s unique singing or rapping style will be made accessible to music partners. Factors such as whether the content serves as the focus of news coverage, analysis, or critique of the synthesized vocals will be considered in evaluating removal requests.
The statement indicated that labels or distributors representing artists participating in YouTube’s initial A.I. music trials will have the option to submit removal requests. Access to more labels and distributors will be expanded in the coming weeks.
The exact implementation date of these changes was not specified in the blog post. However, creators who fail to disclose their A.I.-assisted videos may face video repercussions and potential suspension from the YouTube Partner Program.
Stock image of a composer working at home. AleksandarNakic/Getty Images CREDIT
The Council of Music Makers (CMM) released five key guidelines in September urging businesses to adhere to specific standards when utilizing A.I. technologies in music creation, with YouTube set to impose restrictions on A.I.-generated content soon.
These guidelines include respecting the privacy of music creators, equitably sharing the financial benefits of A.I. music, and transparently attributing works to their respective artists.
Musicians across the industry have expressed mixed feelings about the increasing role of artificial intelligence in music composition. While Grimes supports the concept and introduced Elf. Tech, her A.I.-based voice emulation software for audio recording and distribution, others like Sting have voiced skepticism. Stereophonics frontman Kelly Jones emphasized the importance of authentic human expression in art, contrasting with Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses, who remains unconcerned about A.I.’s impact on creativity.
In a separate A.I.-related development, a recent study revealed that more than half of musicians prefer not to disclose their use of A.I. in music creation.
