In a move to enhance transparency and accountability in political advertising, Alphabet Inc.’s Google is implementing a new policy that will require election advertisers to disclose the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in crafting their messages. This policy, set to take effect from mid-November, will have significant implications for election campaigns across Google’s platforms.
The AI Disclosure Mandate
Under the updated policy, election advertisers who utilize generative AI software, capable of creating or modifying content based on a simple prompt, must prominently display disclosure messages in their ads. These messages must explicitly state when content has been altered by AI, such as “This audio was computer generated” or “This image does not depict real events.” Minor adjustments like image resizing or brightness adjustments are exempted from this policy.
Google’s Commitment To Transparency
Google’s decision to implement this policy reflects its commitment to transparency in political advertising, particularly in an era where AI tools are increasingly used to create synthetic content. Michael Aciman, a Google spokesperson, emphasizes that this policy aims to support responsible political advertising and provide voters with the information they need to make informed choices.
Youtube, Instagram, X Opt Out
It is important to note that Google’s new policy does not extend to videos uploaded on YouTube, even if they are related to political campaigns. The same exemption applies to Meta Platforms Inc.’s Facebook and Instagram, as well as Elon Musk’s X (formerly known as Twitter).
The Ongoing Battle Against Misinformation
Google’s implementation of this policy is a response to the growing pressure to combat misinformation on its platforms, especially false claims related to elections and voting. In the past, Google has taken steps such as identity verification for election advertisers and targeting restrictions for election ads. The company has also provided a transparency center for the public to track election ad purchases, spending, and impressions on its platforms.
In conclusion, Google’s new policy requiring disclosure of AI-altered content in election ads demonstrates its commitment to transparency and accountability in political advertising. By implementing this policy, Google aims to provide voters with the necessary information to make informed decisions while combating misinformation. Despite the exemptions for certain platforms like YouTube and Meta Platforms Inc.’s Facebook and Instagram, this policy marks a significant step towards ensuring the integrity of political campaigns in the digital age.