Have you been getting as many political robotexts and robocalls as I have? My guess is yes. Actually, I don't get too many robocalls now-a-days, because I have "Silence Unknown Callers" set on my phone (Settings>Phone>Silence Unknown Callers), which sends unknown calls directly to voicemail. Robotexts, however – especially political robotexts – are out of control. Is there anything we can do about them?
On August 7, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) new rules to regulate AI-generated robocalls and robotexts, aiming to protect consumers and combat election misinformation. The proposal, set to be considered at the FCC's August 2024 Open Meeting, is the first of its kind specifically addressing AI-generated calls and texts. Key aspects of the proposal include defining "AI-generated calls," requiring callers to disclose the use of AI in voice or text communications, and mandating clear consumer consent for receiving such calls or texts.
This proposal comes amid growing concerns about AI being used to spread election misinformation, with the FCC having already taken action against AI-generated robocalls attempting to discourage voting in the New Hampshire primary. It's part of the FCC's broader efforts to address AI's implications in telecommunications, including potential rules for AI-generated content in political advertisements. Additionally, the agency is seeking comments on technologies that can detect incoming calls potentially using AI-generated voices.
Here's the important part: this is mostly nonsense. I call your attention to on the FCC's official website. The salient passage states: Political text messages sent to a mobile phone using an autodialer require the called party's prior express consent. Messages sent manually can be sent without prior consent. If you are receiving texts that you didn't ask for, report the sender by forwarding the texts to 7726 (or "SPAM"). Campaigns should also honor opt-out requests if you reply "STOP."
We know how well this works, so I don't really have high hopes for the newly proposed rules… but we can dream, can't we?
As always your thoughts and comments are both welcome and encouraged. Just reply to this email. -s
P.S. Does anyone want to guess what Sam Altman’s "i love summer in the garden" is about? My money is on an early release of GPT-5 (which is codenamed Strawberry) or a new, improved version of GPT-4. Have a look – and you tell me.
ABOUT SHELLY PALMER
Shelly Palmer is the Professor of Advanced Media in Residence at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and CEO of The Palmer Group, a consulting practice that helps Fortune 500 companies with technology, media and marketing. Named he covers tech and business for , is a regular commentator on CNN and writes a popular . He's a , and the creator of the popular, free online course, . Follow or visit .
