A Third of Translators & a Quarter of Illustrators Lost Jobs to AI

Despite the new rules and regulations introduced in some countries, the advancement of generative artificial intelligence and its displacement of human creators continue unabated, with all the negative consequences it entails. While many responded to concerns about replacement in the wittiest of ways – with the “they took our jobs” GIFs from South Park – generative AI has, in fact, been taking jobs from the people, as revealed in a recent survey by the Society of Authors, the UK’s largest trade union for writers, illustrators, and translators.

Conducted earlier this year, the survey in question queried respondents about their experiences with generative AI technology, as well as their views on such systems and worries regarding their future impact on creative careers. Notably, the report highlighted that 22% of participants acknowledged using generative AI in their work, including 12% of illustrators, 37% of translators, 20% of fiction writers, and 25% of non-fiction writers.

When asked about the negative impact AI had on their careers, an alarming 26% of illustrators and 36% of translators claimed that they have already lost jobs to machines. Adding insult to injury, a third of illustrators and over 40% of translators reported a decrease in income due to generative AI.

Considering the results, it’s no wonder that almost all respondents are calling for new regulations in the field of generative AI. As per the SoA’s survey, around 95% of creators seek acknowledgment and compensation, as well as the necessity to obtain consent when their work is utilized for developing generative AI systems. Additionally, the same percentage of creators is urging the government to introduce safeguards to ensure consent, compensation, and transparency in the training and usage of artificial intelligence.

For more interesting findings, we recommend checking out the full survey overview here. Don’t forget to join our 80 Level Talent platform and our Telegram channel, follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, where we share breakdowns, the latest news, awesome artworks, and more.