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HarperCollins Partners with Microsoft for AI Training Program

HarperCollins recently announced a partnership with Microsoft, focusing on utilizing select nonfiction backlist titles for an AI training initiative. According to a statement released to 404 Media, participation in this training program will be voluntary, with authors required to opt in.

In light of this, author Daniel Kibblesmith shared on social media that he was approached with an offer of $2,500 per book for a three-year licensing agreement pertaining to AI use. When asked about what kind of financial incentive would prompt him to consider such an agreement, Kibblesmith humorously noted that he would be interested in a billion-dollar deal, aiming for a sum that would allow him to retire from work entirely, which he views as a primary goal of the technology in development.

Details regarding the specific model that HarperCollins’ content will assist in training remain sparse. However, a source close to the discussions informed Bloomberg that Microsoft does not plan to produce AI-generated books using the material acquired through this partnership. Microsoft has refrained from commenting further on the matter.

It is also worth noting that this collaboration follows a significant agreement earlier this year, where News Corp, the parent organization of HarperCollins, established a deal with OpenAI. This arrangement permits OpenAI to use content from various News Corp digital platforms, including renowned publications such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Post, and The Daily Telegraph.

Source
www.theverge.com