YouTube mandates labelling of synthetic, AI-generated content

YouTube, the world’s leading online video platform, has taken a step towards greater transparency. They’ve executed a new policy requiring creators to reveal videos containing “altered or synthetic content.” This has a wide range of content, including videos using artificial intelligence (AI) to generate visuals, manipulate real-world footage, or create deepfakes that alter a person’s appearance. This move is to provide viewers with better information about the content they consume and combat the spread of misinformation.

In short:

• YouTube introduces a new policy requiring creators to disclose “altered or synthetic content.”
• This includes videos using AI-generated footage, manipulated real-life events, or digitally altered appearances.
• The goal is to enhance transparency and combat misinformation on the platform.

What is Altered and Synthetic Content on YouTube?

The new policy targets content that, while appearing realistic, isn’t entirely authentic. Here’s a breakdown of what falls under this category:

• AI-Generated Visuals: Videos that utilize AI to create realistic-looking scenes, environments, or characters must now be disclosed. This could involve anything from a commercial featuring a computer-generated product demonstration to a historical reenactment with AI-populated backgrounds.
• Manipulated Real-World Events: Altering existing footage of real events to change their context or meaning also requires disclosure. This might involve slowing down a clip to create a misleading impression or doctoring audio to fabricate a quote.
• Deepfakes and Digitally Altered Appearances: The use of deepfakes, which are videos that convincingly replace a person’s face with another’s, necessitates disclosure. Similarly, any video that digitally alters a person’s appearance beyond basic filters or edits must be flagged.

YouTube Requests Disclosure of Altered Content

YouTube’s new policy hinges on the principle of transparency. Here are the key reasons behind this initiative:

• Combating Misinformation: The rise of deepfakes and AI-generated content has fueled concerns about the spread of misinformation online. By requiring disclosure, YouTube aims to equip viewers with the knowledge to critically evaluate the authenticity of content.
• Building Trust with Viewers: Transparency fosters trust. Viewers appreciate knowing when they’re watching genuine footage or AI-created visuals. This disclosure allows viewers to make informed decisions about the content they engage with.
• Maintaining Platform Integrity: A platform brimming with misleading content undermines its credibility. YouTube’s policy discourages creators from manipulating content and upholds the platform’s value proposition of reliable video sharing.

Policy Affect on YouTube Creators

The new policy introduces a few key considerations for content creators:

• Disclosure Methods: Creators can disclose altered or synthetic content during the upload process. YouTube also provides tools to add disclosure labels directly to videos or within the video description.
• Impact on Monetization: Failure to disclose altered content could result in penalties, including suspension from YouTube’s Partner Program, which allows creators to monetize their content.
• The Line Between Artistic Expression and Misinformation: The policy acknowledges the use of AI and altered content for creative purposes like satire or parody. However, creators should ensure clear disclosure to avoid misleading viewers.

How to Know a Video Contains Altered Content?

There are a few ways viewers can identify videos with altered content:

• Video Description and Labels: Creators will be responsible for disclosing altered content within the video description or by adding a disclosure label directly on the video player.
• Scrutiny and Critical Thinking: Viewers are encouraged to develop a critical eye. Examining the video’s production quality, source information, and creator’s reputation can provide clues about authenticity.

Exceptions to Youtube Disclosure Policy

The policy isn’t all-encompassing. Here are some exceptions:

• Clearly Unrealistic Content: Videos like cartoons or animations featuring fantastical elements wouldn’t require disclosure.
• Minor Color Adjustments and Filters: Basic video editing techniques like color correction or applying artistic filters wouldn’t fall under the disclosure mandate.
• AI-powered Productivity Tools: The policy doesn’t target AI tools used for script generation, content ideation, or automatic captions. These fall under creative assistance and not content manipulation.

Conclusion

YouTube’s new policy on disclosing altered or synthetic content marks a significant step towards a more transparent and trustworthy online video experience. By empowering viewers with knowledge about the authenticity of content, YouTube aims to combat misinformation and foster a healthier online environment for both creators and viewers.

YouTube Labelling Synthetic, AI-generated Content – FAQs

Is AI content allowed on YouTube?

Yes, AI-generated content is allowed on YouTube, but creators must now disclose it.

Can YouTube detect AI-generated videos automatically?

No, currently YouTube relies on creators to disclose AI use, but detection methods might be developed in the future.

How do I label AI-generated content on YouTube?

Creators can disclose AI use during upload or add disclosure labels directly to videos or descriptions.

Can AI content be detected by viewers?

Not perfectly, but viewers can be mindful of disclosure labels and develop a critical eye for visuals that seem too perfect or unrealistic.

What is altered content in YouTube’s policy?

Altered content includes AI-generated visuals, manipulated real footage, and deepfakes that change a person’s appearance.