Netflix wants its partners to follow these rules when using gen AI

Source:The Verge
By:Charles Pulliam-Moore
8/22/2025, 9:22:47 PM
Description

Netflix has already faced backlash over the use of AI in  What Jennifer Did, director Jenny Popplewell’s 2024 true crime documentary that seemingly used AI-generated images in place of real archival photos.That documentary stood out as a shining example of ge…

Backcode AI Reviews

Positive Aspects:
  • Netflix is demonstrating a commitment to governing generative AI use within its content ecosystem by establishing rules, which is crucial for maintaining ethical standards and content quality.

  • The implementation of these rules directly after facing 'backlash' indicates that Netflix is learning from past mistakes and adapting its strategies to address public and ethical concerns regarding AI integration in content production.

Negative Aspects:
  • The necessity for these rules, following a significant public 'backlash' over 'What Jennifer Did,' suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to managing the ethical and creative implications of generative AI from the outset.

  • The prior incident of using AI-generated images in 'What Jennifer Did' and the subsequent 'backlash' have already caused reputational damage, potentially eroding viewer trust in the authenticity and integrity of Netflix's content, even with new rules in place.

Overall Comment:

Netflix's move to set guidelines for generative AI use is a necessary and positive step towards responsible technology integration, especially after a public relations misstep. However, the reactive nature of this policy development, triggered by pre-existing backlash, highlights a initial lack of foresight in AI governance. The effectiveness of these rules in rebuilding public trust and ensuring ethical content creation will be key going forward.