Twitch, the streaming platform, has reversed its decision to relax its policy on sexual content after facing a surge in AI-generated nudity. Initially, the platform announced on Wednesday that it would permit more adult content deemed artistic. However, the ensuing influx of digitally created explicit images led to a prompt reversal by Friday.
In a statement, CEO Dan Clancy acknowledged that the change had gone too far and that some of the permitted content had raised community concerns. As a result, Twitch decided to disallow depictions of real or fictional nudity in any form, regardless of the medium.
The previous week, Twitch, an Amazon-owned platform, had updated its sexual content policy to include content that was previously banned. This encompassed deliberately highlighted body parts, animated or sculpted nudity, body writing, and erotic dances with disrobing gestures. The key alteration involved the introduction of content creation labels on specific streams, requiring viewer consent before accessing such content.
Dan Clancy recognized the complexity of the issue, especially with the challenge of distinguishing between digital art and AI-generated images. The decision to backtrack was prompted by concerns raised by Twitch’s art community, which expressed worry about the overwhelming volume of AI-generated nudity inundating the art category since the policy change.
The sole exception to the revised policy is “incidental nudity” in mature-rated games. Clancy acknowledged the unforeseen consequences, expressing regret for any confusion caused by the update and emphasizing the platform’s commitment to making necessary adjustments to better serve the community.
