NEW YORK: Meta Platforms (META.O) has announced plans to introduce a system for detecting and labeling images generated by artificial intelligence (AI) services from other companies, including OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft. The initiative aims to provide transparency to users about the origin of digital content shared on Meta’s platforms.
In a blog post penned by Nick Clegg, Meta’s president of global affairs, the company revealed its intention to apply invisible markers to images created using AI tools. These markers will serve as indicators that the content is digitally generated, even if it closely resembles real photographs. Meta already labels content generated using its own AI tools, and it intends to extend this practice to images created on platforms operated by various tech giants.
According to Clegg, Meta’s labeling initiative is part of a broader effort by technology companies to address potential risks associated with generative AI technologies. These technologies have the capability to produce realistic-looking content based on simple prompts, raising concerns about misinformation and deception.
Meta Aims to Enhance Transparency
The approach adopted by Meta draws from previous efforts by industry players to coordinate the removal of prohibited content across different platforms, such as content depicting violence and exploitation. By implementing an image labeling system, Meta aims to enhance transparency and help users differentiate between authentic and digitally manipulated content.
Clegg expressed confidence in the ability of companies to reliably label AI-generated images, although he acknowledged that marking audio and video content poses greater challenges and requires further development. In the meantime, Meta plans to enforce labeling requirements for altered audio and video content, with penalties for non-compliance.
However, Clegg noted that labeling written text generated by AI tools like ChatGPT currently presents logistical challenges that remain unresolved.
Meta’s announcement comes shortly after its independent oversight board criticized the company’s policy on misleadingly altered videos, urging for improved labeling practices instead of outright removal. Clegg affirmed Meta’s commitment to evolving its policies in response to emerging challenges posed by synthetic and hybrid content.
