In a bold move, Procreate CEO James Cuda has declared that the popular iPad illustration app will not be incorporating generative AI into its products. This decision comes as a relief to many users who are concerned about the negative effects of AI on the creative industry. Cuda stated, “I don’t like what’s happening to the industry, and I don’t like what it’s doing to artists.”
The creative community’s opposition to generative AI stems from two main issues. Firstly, many artists are worried that AI models are being trained on their content without their consent or proper compensation. Secondly, there is a fear that the widespread adoption of generative AI technology will lead to a significant reduction in job opportunities for digital illustrators. As a result, some artists are turning to alternative solutions that do not incorporate AI tools, such as Adobe Photoshop.
Procreate has highlighted its concerns about generative AI on its website, stating that the technology is stripping away the humanity from creative works and leading us towards a bleak future. While acknowledging the potential of machine learning, Procreate believes that the current trajectory of generative AI is not aligned with its values. This clear stance has garnered praise from creatives who are dissatisfied with how other companies have handled the implementation of AI tools.
Following Procreate’s announcement, other companies in the creative industry have faced backlash for their involvement with generative AI. Clip Studio Paint, a competitor to Procreate, abandoned plans to introduce image-generation features after facing criticism from its user base. Companies like Wacom and Wizards of the Coast have also issued apologies for inadvertently using AI-generated assets in their products, leading to negative reactions from the community. Even Adobe, known for its attempts at an “ethical” approach to generative AI, has been criticized for its handling of the technology, despite clarifying that it does not train AI on user content.
In comparison to its competitors, Procreate has been widely praised for its business model and commitment to its users. By offering a one-time purchase option at a reasonable price point, Procreate has differentiated itself from subscription-based services like Adobe and Clip Studio Paint. Additionally, the company’s expansion into animation and desktop products demonstrates its dedication to meeting the evolving needs of its customers.
Procreate’s decision to reject generative AI reflects a growing concern within the creative community about the impact of technology on artistic expression and employment opportunities. While some companies may continue to integrate AI tools into their products, Procreate’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the creative process has earned it the respect and support of artists worldwide.
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