Zoom wants to train its own AI with some customer data

Zoom wants to use some user data to train its artificial intelligence models, according to the company’s updated terms of service, writes CNBC.

The update includes sections on software licensing, beta, and compliance. But if you read further, you’ll find information about AI in the fine print. The changes, which went into effect on July 27, establish Zoom’s right to use some customer data to train and adjust its AI, or machine learning, models.

“Service-generated data” that Zoom can now use to train its AI includes product usage information, telemetry and diagnostic data, and similar content or information collected by the company. There is no opt-out option.

This is not an uncommon category of data for companies to use for such purposes. But the new terms are a balanced step toward Zoom’s own ambitions in artificial intelligence.

“You consent to Zoom’s access, use, collection, creation, modification, distribution, processing, sharing, maintenance, and storage of Service Generated Data for any purpose, to the extent and in the manner permitted under applicable Law, including for the purpose of … machine learning or artificial intelligence (including for the purposes of training and tuning of algorithms and models), Zoom’s terms state.

User content, such as messages, files, and documents, does not appear to be included in this category.

“…for AI, we do not use audio, video or chat content for training our models without customer consent,” the company explained.

The company recently announced a new function Intelligent Director, which allows more people in medium and large meeting rooms to participate in a meeting, even if they try to hide from the camera.