Meta May Use Online Publications’ Content for Free in AI Training

Meta is preparing to secure broad permission under new commercial terms taking effect on October 30 to automatically collect content from websites linked to business accounts. The rules may also apply to online publications. As a result, their content could be used to train artificial intelligence without compensation. Meta will be able to use this data to develop and improve its artificial intelligence products.

Under the new terms, Meta will be able to use automated programs such as web crawlers and bots to access domains, pages and internet addresses linked to businesses. The company may index, store, analyze and collect the information found there. New content added to the websites may also be collected again at certain intervals.

The rules apply to business accounts that promote their content through Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger. This means Meta may use online publications’ materials to train artificial intelligence models without signing separate licensing agreements with them. The company has previously signed such licensing agreements with some major media organizations.

Businesses that do not accept the new rules may have to stop using Meta products for commercial purposes entirely. Last month, the company launched the Meta One subscription for businesses and creators. Under the subscription, users must pay to add links to posts and short videos. However, content on the websites those links lead to may be collected free of charge under the new terms. Meta has not yet commented on the matter.