Japanese media demands consent for AI-generated content

Japanese media Wednesday raised concerns over the use of artificial intelligence (AI), calling for an urgent review of copyright laws.

A body representing the country’s mass media said the companies operating AI-powered search engines by Google LLC and Microsoft Corp. should get consent from news organizations for content.

Japan Newspaper Publishers and Editors Association said the use of AI by these companies “likely infringe on copyright," Tokyo-based Kyodo News reported.

It also flagged concerns over “potential inaccuracies in responses generated by AI search engines.”

This can harm the source articles themselves as “erroneous and damage the credibility of news organizations,” it said.

“AI search engines sometimes return inaccurate responses as they inappropriately reuse or modify articles,” the association said.

It said: “The companies should ensure the accuracy and reliability of their services before launch.”

Calling it a “matter of urgency,” the association urged the Japanese government to “review and revise laws related to intellectual property, such as the copyright act.”

The statement pointed out the “issue of ‘zero-click searches’, where users do not visit the source site.”

“Lack of traffic could lead to the diminution of news organizations’ reporting activities, which would then have a negative impact on democracy and culture,” said the association.