ZDNET AI policy (original) (raw)

Key takeaways

• ZDNET does not use generative AI to write content. All work is written by human writers.
• We may use AI tools to assist with tasks such as interview transcription or note-taking, but not to generate advice, reporting, or recommendations.
• ZDNET adheres to editorial standards for trustworthy recommendations, proper sourcing, and error correction.

ZDNET doesn't use generative AI to create text, images, or videos, except as examples of AI capabilities in our coverage of chatbots, image generators, and other AI tools. Our content is always written and edited by humans to ensure high editorial standards and the genuine perspective of real people.

We don't use AI for:

• Original writing, reporting, or editing. Our stories, reviews, and recommendations are reported on, written by, and edited by human writers and editors.
• Photos or videos, except as examples of AI capabilities in our coverage of chatbots, image generators, and other AI tools. Staff photographers, videographers, or writers capture our images and videos. We may use stock photos or videos from third-party vendors like Shutterstock and Getty, and we appropriately credit them.
• Product testing or recommendations. Our writers and editors test products to inform our coverage and help you decide what to buy.

We may use AI tools for:

• Transcription and note-taking
• Streamlining information and large data sets
• Brainstorming and generating potential story, art, and video ideas
• Finding sources

The policy below outlines the principles for the use of AI tools in content creation and editorial processes at CNET Group, including ZDNET.

CNET Group's key AI principles and guardrails:

• Human-centric content: All published content must be factual, original, and edited by a human.
• Transparency and disclosure: If any content features text or images generated by AI tools, clear disclosures will be included (e.g., secondary byline, credit field labels).
• Author and creator credit: Authors and creators are always credited for their work.
• Training and standards: Staff receive training on processes that prioritize accurate sourcing and adhere to editorial standards when using AI tools.
• Legal context: Disclosure of ongoing legal actions (e.g., lawsuits against OpenAI regarding copyright infringement) will be included in relevant coverage.
• Evolution and updates: This policy will be updated as AI technology evolves and new uses are explored.

Prohibited Uses of AI Tools:

• Original writing, reporting, or editing: All stories, reviews, advice, and recommendations must be human-written, reported, and edited. Generative AI is not to be used for creating content.
• Product testing or recommendations: AI tools are not employed in the hands-on testing of products or in generating product recommendations and ratings. All reviews are performed by human experts.
• Photos or videos: Staff photographers, videographers, or editorial teams capture images and videos. Third-party images and videos are credited. (Note: Experimentation with generative AI for conceptual illustrations may be explored with disclosure.)

Permitted Uses of AI Tools (with human oversight and disclosure):

• Testing and evaluating AI Products for review.
• Transcription and note-taking: AI can assist with these tasks.
• Streamlining information and large datasets: AI tools can be used for efficient data processing.
• Brainstorming: AI can aid in generating potential story, art, and video ideas.
• Finding sources: AI tools can be used to assist in source identification.
• Suggesting alternative story packaging: AI can help in exploring different content presentation approaches.
• Data gathering (historical/limited use): In specific, limited cases (e.g., gathering speed, pricing, and availability from proprietary databases), AI-assisted methods may be used with human review, fact-checking, and subject matter expertise added. Such instances require clear disclosure.

Additional notes

• Our AI policy applies to work produced by our editorial team. Content produced by external advertising partners and labeled as sponsored is not subject to our editorial policies.
• In April 2025, Ziff Davis, ZDNET's parent company, filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging it infringed Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems. We include this disclosure in stories that cover OpenAI or its products. It does not impact our coverage.