Hey there, tech enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the exciting developments at Bluesky, where user consent is taking center stage in the realm of artificial intelligence.

During the SXSW conference in Austin, Bluesky CEO Jay Graber shared how the platform is pioneering a framework that gives users absolute control over their data and its usage for generative AI.

Bluesky’s unique approach is essential, considering the platform’s public nature has already enabled others to leverage user-generated content for AI training. There’s been a noticeable increase in users transitioning from rival platforms that have adopted less favorable policies.

With over 32 million users in just two years, Bluesky is responding to this demand for a transparent AI policy. Notably, they’re not planning to utilize user posts for their own AI systems, which sets them apart.

Graber emphasized that users will have the option to dictate how their content is utilized, echoing the functionalities found in traditional web practices. This kind of user-first thinking is refreshing!

The current proposal is available on GitHub, allowing for community feedback and engagement. This initiative aims to establish standards for manipulating data through consent settings at both account and post levels.

In essence, this move toward user empowerment highlights Bluesky’s dedication to fostering a safer and more user-friendly social network. The idea is not just to allow scraping but to ensure it’s done with users’ permissions.

As we move forward, the success of this framework will depend on widespread adoption and cooperation across platforms, but it’s an exciting step in the right direction!