What's Happening?
TikTok is testing a new feature that allows users to limit the amount of AI-generated content they see in their feeds. This feature, announced at TikTok's European trust and safety forum in Dublin, will be available in the app's 'manage topics' section.
Users can adjust a toggle to see less AI-generated content, although it won't completely remove such content from their feeds. TikTok is also introducing 'invisible watermarking' for AI-generated content to ensure proper labeling, as existing labels can be removed when content is edited or reuploaded. The company aims to safeguard positive experiences with AI while addressing the growing presence of AI-generated videos on the platform.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of this feature is significant as it addresses the increasing prevalence of AI-generated content on social media platforms, which can affect user experience and trust. By allowing users to control the amount of AI content they see, TikTok is responding to concerns about the overwhelming presence of AI 'slop'—low-quality, AI-generated content. This move also highlights the challenges social media companies face in balancing technological advancements with user satisfaction and safety. The invisible watermarking feature aims to improve transparency and accountability in AI content labeling, which is crucial for maintaining trust among users.
What's Next?
TikTok plans to roll out this feature in the coming weeks, and it will be interesting to see how users respond to the ability to limit AI content. The company is also launching an AI literacy fund to educate users about AI safety and literacy, indicating a broader effort to address the implications of AI on social media. As AI tools become more sophisticated, TikTok and other platforms may need to further refine their strategies to manage AI content effectively. The industry will likely watch TikTok's approach closely, as it could set a precedent for other social media companies facing similar challenges.
