Medium bans AI-generated content from its Partner Program, upholding human storytelling

Medium, a widely used publishing platform, has declared a ban on AI-generated content within its Partner Program. The Partner Program allows writers to monetize their published stories based on member engagement and activity. The company informed its users via email that starting May 1, 2024, AI-generated writing, whether disclosed or not, will no longer be eligible for paywalling under the Partner Program.

The platform also warned that any accounts found to have AI-generated content behind the paywall may face removal of those stories from the paywall or even termination of their Partner Program enrollment. Given Medium's clear vision of being a platform for human storytelling rather than AI-powered content, this decision is in line with its identity.

While Medium acknowledges the role of AI in enhancing clarity in writing or aiding those using a second language, the platform has drawn a firm line against purely AI-generated content. The guidelines permit the use of AI-assistive technology responsibly, but with a strong emphasis on transparency.

The policy also applies to AI-generated images, which are required to be correctly labeled and sourced.