Industry Leaders Call for Action on Unlicensed Content in AI Training
Published on: March 10, 2024
In a significant move, media executives have urged the US Congress to enact legislation aimed at preventing artificial intelligence models from using content without proper authorization. This request follows concerns that AI technologies, notably those like OpenAI's ChatGPT, are being trained on media content considered 'stolen goods' due to the lack of permission and compensation to the original publishers.
During a recent hearing before the US Senate, Condé Nast’s CEO, Roger Lynch, emphasized that current AI models are built by scraping news articles and other media content without the consent of the publishers. He raised concerns about the implications of such practices on the media industry, which is already facing challenges in the digital age.
The issue extends beyond the news media sector, encompassing broader concerns in the creative industry. In 2023, significant lawsuits were filed against AI companies, highlighting the growing unease over the unauthorized use of copyrighted material for training AI models.
Media executives propose that AI companies should utilize licensed content and compensate the original publishers. This approach is seen as essential to maintain a balanced ecosystem where quality content production is sustainable and media brands can continue to thrive.
The executives warn about the risks associated with AI models sourcing content from less credible platforms, potentially leading to misinformation and damaging the reputation of established publications. They advocate for a collaborative approach where AI development does not undermine the integrity and economic viability of content creators.
The proposed legislative measures could offer a mutual benefit to both the AI industry and content creators. By establishing a framework for fair use and compensation, AI technologies can continue to evolve without compromising the rights and revenues of those who produce the original content.