Chinese social media platforms roll out labels for AI-generated material (www.engadget.com)

Chinese social media platforms including WeChat, Douyin, Weibo, and RedNote have begun implementing mandatory labels to identify AI-generated content, in compliance with a new law that took effect recently. These labels apply to various media types such as text, images, audio, and video, with metadata watermarks required to verify authenticity. Users must actively tag AI-generated posts, and platforms strictly forbid removing or tampering with these labels or using AI to spread misinformation or illegal content. This regulation marks a significant step in managing the rapid growth of generative AI use, aiming to improve transparency and curb the spread of deceptive or harmful material. The law, drafted by key agencies including China’s Cyberspace Administration and the Ministry of Public Security, demonstrates a coordinated governmental effort to oversee AI content responsibly. Notably, platforms have introduced tools like reporting options for unlabelled AI material and metadata tracking to enforce compliance. Technically, these measures align with a broader global trend toward provenance and authenticity standards for AI content. Similar initiatives include Google’s Pixel 10, which integrates the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) framework directly into its camera app. By requiring clear indications of AI involvement, China’s approach provides a pivotal example of how regulations can guide ethical generative AI deployment while empowering users to discern synthetic from authentic media.