Meta terms may allow AI training on business sites for free
What the terms permit
The rules cover business accounts promoting content on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger. They authorize Meta, or parties acting for it, to use automated tools to access and gather material from websites associated with a business’s products or services.
The terms also allow Meta to revisit those sites for updates. They say collected content may be used to develop, improve, research and train Meta products and services, as well as maintain their integrity.
Potential impact on publishers
Nieman Lab said the terms appear to give Meta access to publishers’ online content through business accounts. The publication noted that this could let Meta train AI models on material without relying on a licensing agreement.
Meta has made AI licensing deals with CNN, Fox News, USA Today and People Inc. The new terms could provide access to a broader range of content, though the article describes that outcome as a possibility rather than a confirmed practice.
Businesses face a choice
Companies that do not accept the updated policy may stop using Meta products for business or commercial purposes, according to the terms. The policy is scheduled to take effect October 30.
The change comes after Meta launched a Meta One subscription last month. Businesses and creators using that subscription must pay to include links in posts and reels, while Nieman Lab said the terms could allow Meta to crawl the linked content without payment.
Key points
- Meta’s commercial terms take effect October 30.
- The rules cover business accounts on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger.
- Meta has AI licensing deals with four named news organizations.
- Businesses rejecting the terms may lose commercial access to Meta products.