YouTube is cracking down on the misuse of AI by removing content that imitates well-known figures

YouTube has revealed its plan to begin the removal of AI-generated video content imitating well-known individuals starting in 2024. This decision, outlined in a Tuesday policy update, aims to protect musicians whose songs are recreated with AI.

The removal process won’t be automatic; affected individuals or artists will need to request it. This policy adjustment, influenced by feedback from YouTube’s community, responds to concerns about the impact of emerging technologies on creators, viewers, and artists.

The company emphasised instances where someone’s face or voice could be digitally generated without consent or misrepresent their perspectives. The specific date for the policy’s implementation wasn’t disclosed, but the update suggests it will take effect in the coming months of the next year.

YouTube plans to establish a mechanism for users to request the removal of AI-generated or altered content that simulates identifiable individuals, factoring in elements like parody, satire, unique identification, or involvement of public figures.

Reflecting on the announced policy update, it becomes apparent that YouTube is taking a proactive stance in addressing the potential misuse of AI-generated content. This move not only demonstrates a commitment to user well-being but also underscores the platform’s role as a responsible curator of diverse and authentic content.

YouTube also announced an upcoming requirement for video creators to disclose the use of manipulated or synthetic content, particularly material created with AI tools, starting in the new year. This disclosure mandate is crucial, especially for videos discussing sensitive topics like elections, conflicts, public health crises, or involving public officials.

The blog post by YouTube’s vice presidents of product management, Jennifer Flannery O’Connor and Emily Moxley, detailed the reasoning behind this forthcoming policy update.