openai’s Promised Opt-Out Tool Stalls
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
OpenAI generated buzz in May 2024 when they announced a tool named ‘Media Manager’ designed to empower creatives and content owners. This tool promised to give users control over whether their work was used in AI research and training. Though, seven months later, as we enter 2025, insiders reveal that the tool has fallen off OpenAI’s radar.
According to a recent report by TechCrunch, OpenAI insiders have confirmed that Media Manager is not a priority for the company.”I don’t think it was a priority,” shared a former OpenAI employee. “To be honest, I don’t remember anyone working on it.” A non-employee collaborator with the company echoed this sentiment, stating that OpenAI had discussed the tool in the past but there have been no recent developments.
Lead developer Departs
Fred von Lohmann, the individual originally tasked with developing Media Manager, is no longer with OpenAI and has transitioned to a part-time consultant role. This departure further reinforces the uncertainty surrounding the project’s future.
Since OpenAI’s blog post announcing Media Manager in May 2024, there has been a conspicuous silence from the company regarding the tool’s progress or even its existence.
## OpenAI’s Promised Opt-out Tool: A Conversation
**Archyde:**
Today, we’re discussing the fate of OpenAI’s “media Manager”, a tool initially touted as a way for creators to exert control over how their work is used in AI training. Seven months after it’s declaration,the tool appears to have stalled. Joining us to discuss this situation is [Alex Reed Name and Credentials].
**[Alex Reed Name]:**
Thanks for having me.
**Archyde:**
OpenAI generated a lot of positive buzz when they announced Media Manager in May 2024. What happened?
**[Alex Reed Name]:**
It seems the initial enthusiasm hasn’t translated into tangible progress. Reports from within OpenAI suggest the tool is no longer a priority, making its future uncertain.
**Archyde:**
We know Fred von Lohmann, the lead developer on Media Manager, is no longer with OpenAI.Does this departure signal even further trouble for the project?
**[Alex Reed Name]:**
It’s certainly not a positive sign. von Lohmann’s departure reinforces the perception that Media Manager is adrift without a clear champion within the company.
**Archyde:**
Some argue that OpenAI, given its focus on rapid advancement in AI, simply doesn’t prioritize addressing creator concerns.Is this a valid viewpoint?
**[Alex Reed Name]:**
It’s a complex issue.
OpenAI’s advancements are undeniably important, but neglecting the ethical considerations surrounding data usage could have long-term consequences. Striking a balance between innovation and responsible development is essential.
**Archyde:**
What message does this lack of follow-through send to artists and content creators who rely on their intellectual property?
**[Alex Reed Name]:**
It sends a concerning message of devaluation. If OpenAI isn’t committed to providing creators with control over their work, it undermines trust and potentially discourages future artistic innovation
**Archyde:**
Do you think there’s still a chance for Media Manager to be realized? What would it take, in your opinion, to get this project back on track?
**[Alex Reed Name]:**
It’s not unachievable, but it would require a renewed commitment from OpenAI leadership. They need to clearly articulate a roadmap for Media manager and demonstrate a genuine willingness to collaborate with the creative community.
**Archyde:**
Thank you for sharing your insights. What are your thoughts on this situation?
Let us know in the comments below.
## OpenAI’s promised Opt-out Tool: A Conversation
**[Archyde News]**
**Host:** Today, we’re delving into the perplexing case of OpenAI’s “Media Manager” – a tool announced with much fanfare back in May of 2024, promising creatives and content owners control over their work being used in AI training.Seven months later, the tool seems to have vanished. Joining us is [Alex Reed Name],a prominent figure in the AI ethics community,to unpack what happened.
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Thanks for having me. It’s certainly a worrying situation. when OpenAI announced Media Manager, there was genuine excitement within the creative community.
**Host:** Right. What were the key concerns that this tool was intending to address?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Primarily, the lack of consent and openness around the use of copyrighted material in training AI models.Artists and creators felt their work was being exploited without their knowledge or permission.Media Manager promised to change that, empowering them with control over how their content was used.
**Host:** But now, as you mentioned, it’s nowhere to be seen. What unfolds in the period between the announcement and today?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** According to reports from *TechCrunch*, it seems that Media Manager simply fell off OpenAI’s radar. Insider accounts suggest it was never a high priority for the company, with no dedicated team or resources allocated to its advancement. the departure of Fred von Lohmann, the lead developer, further suggests the project’s lack of direction.
**Host:** So, what implications does this silence and apparent abandonment have for the creative community?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** It’s deeply concerning. It sends a message that OpenAI isn’t truly committed to addressing the ethical concerns surrounding AI development.It further erodes trust between the tech giant and the creative community, who now feel disregarded and their concerns dismissed.
**Host:** What steps, in your opinion, should OpenAI take to rectify this situation?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** Transparency is crucial. OpenAI needs to publicly acknowledge the status of Media Manager and explain the reasons behind its delay or potential cancellation. Thay also need to engage in meaningful dialog with creators and organizations representing their interests.
**Host:** As we move further into the age of AI, what broader lessons can we learn from this episode?
**[Alex Reed Name]:** It highlights the importance of ethical considerations being at the forefront of AI development. We need robust frameworks and regulations that protect creators’ rights and ensure responsible use of copyrighted material in training AI models.
**Host:** Thank you, [Alex Reed Name], for providing your insightful perspective on this pressing issue.
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