Amazon, the owner of Twitch, has initiated a controversial move by using content from Twitch to train artificial intelligence (AI) models. This decision has sparked criticism from streamers and users on the platform. While users’ accounts are automatically enrolled, Amazon has stated that users can opt out and disable this default setting. Many users have taken this step due to concerns about Amazon utilizing their content without permission.
The recent policy change reflects the increasing tensions between AI companies seeking data and content creators demanding more control over their work. This move follows similar actions by major streaming and gaming platforms like YouTube Live, Netflix, and Roblox, which have integrated AI for content optimization and recommendations.
Under the new policy, Amazon will gather streams, clips, images, chats, and channel content for AI training. Users can disable this default setting by accessing their Twitch profile picture, proceeding to Settings, then to Security and Privacy, and turning off the switch for Training for Generative AI.
Responding to queries about the opt-out approach, Twitch’s chief product officer, Mike Minton, explained that most users would not voluntarily opt into data collection if it were not enabled by default. This stance has faced criticism within the Twitch community, with users voicing concerns about the lack of transparency and user choice in the matter.
Despite assurances from Twitch that collected data will not be sold, users remain apprehensive about the potential uses of their content. During a Twitch livestream, numerous users expressed dissent over the new policy, accusing the company of exploiting creators’ content. Twitch has not confirmed whether user content has already been utilized for training AI models.