Amazon AI trained on Twitch streams; users can now opt out
▼ Summary
– Twitch now allows users to opt out of Amazon using their channel content to train generative AI models, announced via an updated support page.
– Opting out requires users to disable the setting at www.twitch.tv/settings/security, as they are automatically opted in by default.
– Content covered by the training includes streams, VODs, clips, stream chats, and pictures and text on the channel.
– Allowing training means content may improve Amazon’s Gen AI models, such as refining speech-to-text for captions across Twitch and Amazon.
– The change follows a 2024 statement by Twitch’s chief monetization officer, Mike Minton, confirming Amazon used Twitch content for AI training within privacy regulations.
Twitch has introduced a new setting that lets streamers block Amazon from using their channel content to train its generative AI models. The update, rolled out today, arrives over two years after an Amazon executive publicly confirmed that Twitch content was already feeding the company’s AI development efforts.
According to an updated support page, users who do not actively opt out will have their “streams, VODs, clips, stream chats, and pictures and text on your channel” potentially used in future training for an Amazon model designed to generate or synthesize text, audio, images, or video. The opt-out option is available at www.twitch.tv/settings/security.
The support page explains what participation involves: “When you allow training, that means that your content may be used for future Gen AI model improvements. An example of what happens when you allow your content to be used for training a Gen AI content model is that your audio might help refine models that create speech to text, which would help improve captions at Twitch but would also help improve captions across Amazon.”
This means every Twitch user is automatically enrolled in the AI training program, a status that has likely been in place for years. The confirmation came during a 2024 event hosted by The Information, where Mike Minton, then Twitch’s chief monetization officer, was asked directly whether Amazon uses Twitch for AI training. His response was blunt: “Yeah, for sure.” He added, “I mean, I think obviously within the bounds of user trust within the bounds of privacy regulations, which vary all around the world, but of course we have a role to play in that.”
For streamers concerned about their content being used without explicit consent, the new setting provides a measure of control. However, the default remains opt-in, meaning those who want to protect their material must take action themselves.
(Source: Ars Technica)
