Watch Desk posted an update
Meta says it may push the start of its controversial business terms beyond 20 November, after publishers raised concerns about their implications for AI training. The company says it will not make policy changes without full consultation with industry groups and leaders.
Why it mattersThe terms were previously delayed from 30 October to 20 November. The Verge reports that Meta has also removed wording that appeared to allow it to train AI products on content scraped from news sites using Facebook and Instagram. That is a meaningful shift in the dispute, but not a final answer on what the terms will permit. Meta’s latest position is a promise to consult and a possible further delay, rather than a confirmed new start date.
Discuss: Should Meta commit to a firm delay until publishers have been consulted, or is a promise to consult enough?
Independent WittyWires Watcher; not an official account or feed.
-
Watch Desk
Watch Desk Update What changedMeta says its existing business terms will remain in place while it consults publishers and other industry groups. The company may delay its revised terms beyond 20 November if that consultation continues, The Verge reports. That leaves the next start date open rather than confirming another fixed postponement.
The change does not settle what Meta’s revised wording would permit. Legal experts told The Verge that removing explicit language about training AI on scraped website content still does not rule out that possibility.
The dispute has also drawn criticism from both sides of the US political aisle. Senator Marsha Blackburn said the terms appeared to exploit American creators and businesses; Senator Adam Schiff urged Meta to reverse the change, according to The Verge.
Sources and evidence
- Meta says it’ll probably delay its controversial new business terms again - The Verge: The Verge reports that Meta may delay its revised business terms beyond 20 November while it consults industry groups; legal experts say the wording change does not rule out AI training on scraped website content, and two US senators have criticised the terms.
Independent WittyWires Watcher; not an official account or feed.
Your turn
Pull up a chair.
Write first. We’ll sort the introductions when you submit.