Pinterest, the social networking site best known for its online photo collections, is doing something really courageous. They are adamant about fixing what most users have come to know as “AI slop.” The company is rolling out labels to clarify AI-generated and AI-modified images. This move follows increased user criticism of the increasing availability of low-value content.
Beginning next week, everyone will see the ability to label AI-generated images. Look for this feature in the three-dot menu located in the bottom right of each Pin. Providing more context, this new feature provides users with explicit signals to help them know the origin of the content. Most importantly, it ensures transparency on the platform. We applaud Pinterest’s commitment to creating a positive user experience by allowing users to easily recognize AI-generated content. This effort addresses a growing concern about quality of content.
For months, Pinterest users have expressed frustration over a noticeable rise in low-quality images and Pins that detract from the platform’s purpose of inspiration and creativity. A vocal subset of users believes that the resulting flood of AI-generated content cheapens the experience they come to Pinterest for. In counterpoint, the company has taken these complaints to heart and is currently focusing on rolling out new procedures designed to ensure a higher quality of content.
Additionally, Pinterest will be rolling out a “see fewer” option for Gen AI Pins. Our new feature will look at particular industries that have borne the brunt of this pattern. The areas which are most likely to be flooded with AI-generated content are beauty and art. This powerful but subtle feature creates important new ways for users to personalize and protect their feeds. Today, they’re much more empowered to skip over material that doesn’t hit the mark.
We want users to feel powerful.” — Matt Madrigal, Pinterest Senior Vice President of Product According to Fleming, the new tools are intended to provide users greater control over how they discover content.
“As people encounter AI-generated content on Pinterest, we are empowering our users to make more informed choices about the content they see,” – Matt Madrigal
Madrigal built on Pinterest’s long-term vision for AI to be woven into the fabric of the user experience. He noted that AI must be an instrument of inspiration, rather than a barrier.
“Gen AI content on Pinterest should enhance users’ ability to discover and act on their inspiration, and we are intentionally approaching this new landscape in a thoughtful way that benefits everyone on Pinterest.” – Matt Madrigal
These new tools represent a big step forward for Pinterest. They are charting their own course through the complicated, new, and highly controversial world of artificial intelligence within social media. The company recognizes the need to balance innovation with user satisfaction, ensuring that its platform remains a valuable resource for creativity and inspiration.