Adobe Pledges Not to Use Customer Data for AI Training

Adobe has updated its terms of service to explicitly state that it will not use customer data to train AI systems. This clarification comes in response to customer concerns about data rights following recent changes to Adobe's terms of service.

Significance of the Update

The updated terms aim to address fears that Adobe was granting itself broad rights to customer content. Scott Belsky, Adobe's chief strategy officer, emphasized in an interview with Axios that Adobe never intended to claim ownership of customer work or use it for AI training.

However, Adobe does need to use customer data for specific purposes, such as creating thumbnails and preventing the storage of child sexual abuse material on its servers. The new terms clearly outline what Adobe will and will not do with customer data, including not training AI systems.

Clarifying Permissions

Adobe is also differentiating the license required for its optional beta programs, where customers provide feedback based on their experiences with test software. "We're really just trying to make it very clear how we operate," Belsky told Axios.

Use of Adobe Stock for AI Training

While Adobe does not use customer data for AI training, it does train its Firefly generative AI engines using content from Adobe Stock, an image collection for which it holds explicit licenses. Additionally, Adobe has begun sharing some Firefly revenue with contributors to the stock image collection.

Customer Concerns and Backlash

The recent changes led some customers to cancel their subscriptions and others to threaten cancellation. There is growing concern over how tech companies utilize customer information for training generative AI systems, especially among Adobe's customer base, who fear that generative AI could jeopardize their livelihoods.

Belsky acknowledged that the confusion extended to Adobe's employees and stated that the company has taken steps to clarify its policies internally. He believes Adobe's terms are among the most creator-friendly in the industry.

Legal and Industry Implications

The controversy coincides with a lawsuit from the Justice Department, accusing Adobe of making its subscriptions difficult to cancel. Despite these challenges, Belsky hopes Adobe's actions will inspire other companies in the industry to adopt more transparent and customer-friendly policies.

Looking Ahead

"I hope that we can inspire others in the industry to do more and that this last two weeks will ultimately make us a better company," Belsky said.

By clearly defining its terms of service, Adobe aims to reassure its customers and set a standard for transparency and responsibility in the tech industry.