YouTube spurs controversy as it reveals artificial intelligence (AI)-altered videos without creators' approval and sparks questions about transparency, trust, and the power of digital platforms.

Debates over transparency in AI continued to swirl after YouTube was accused of using AI-powered tools to modify uploaded videos without creators' permission. An independent report about the app alleged that it was using artificial intelligence to "unblur, denoise and make things clearer" on some content, raising issues about disclosure and trust in users.

Researchers warn about the ethical risks of undisclosed AI edits, saying they take the control out of the hands of creators and mislead audiences. Bringing users' appearances to life, platforms like TikTok faced controversies and backlash after being found to edit users' appearances without any forewarning. Offline, Apple previously drew flak for its Smart HDR that smoothed skin tones out without indicating.

And information manipulation has spread into politics and publishing, too. Last year in Australia, Nine News published an AI-altered picture of a politician without telling the public, and author Jane Friedman found AI-created books being sold under her name on Amazon.

Research has shown that although disclosure of AI use can lead to a loss in trust, the consequences of a breach can be worse if it is discovered that this was not disclosed. In these terms, experts say disclosure still plays an essential role in credibility in an AI-enhanced media environment.

With technology and algorithms having enormous control over content presentation, critics argue YouTube's decision underscores the urgency to have guidelines on the use and disclosure of AI. Without filters, the source can mislead users about what's real and what's fake.