YouTube, the video platform owned by Google, has announced plans to start removing AI-generated video content that mimics identifiable individuals, with a focus on protecting music artists whose songs are being recreated with AI.
The decision was shared in a policy update released on Tuesday. The company aims to address concerns raised by its community, including creators, viewers, and artists, regarding the impact of emerging technologies, particularly in cases where someone’s face or voice is digitally generated without their consent.
While the removal won’t be automatic, YouTube specified that affected individuals or artists will need to request removal.
The policy is expected to come into effect in the “coming months,” implying implementation in 2024.
YouTube outlined the details of the policy update, stating, “So in the coming months, we’ll make it possible to request the removal of AI-generated or other synthetic or altered content that simulates an identifiable individual, including their face or voice, using our privacy request process.”
The company clarified that not all content falling under this category would be removed automatically, and factors such as parody, satire, unique identification of the requester, or the involvement of public officials or well-known individuals would be considered in the evaluation process.
Additionally, YouTube announced plans to allow its music partners to request the removal of AI-generated music content imitating an artist’s unique singing or rapping voice.
The company stated, “We’ll consider factors such as whether content is the subject of news reporting, analysis, or critique of the synthetic vocals.”
Initially, these removal requests will be available to labels or distributors representing artists participating in YouTube’s early AI music experiments, with an expansion to additional labels and distributors in the coming months.
Furthermore, YouTube revealed that it would soon require video creators to disclose when they upload manipulated or synthetic content that looks realistic, including content generated using artificial intelligence tools.
