How to spot an AI-generated video

Generative AI is rapidly transforming the internet, raising concerns about its impact on education, energy, and human creativity. This rapid proliferation makes it increasingly difficult to discern authenticity online. How can we tell if something is real or AI-generated?

While foolproof detection remains elusive, several telltale signs can help identify computer-generated text, audio, images, and videos. A combination of these indicators and human observation usually reveals the likelihood of AI involvement. This article focuses on AI-generated videos, using examples from tools like OpenAI's Sora.

Suspect Text:

AI struggles with text rendering. Often, text is missing entirely, or appears garbled and nonsensical, resembling an alien language. While some AI videos might feature seemingly correct text, this is often manually added post-generation. Observe carefully for anomalies; they may be fleeting. (See the Monster Camp trailer example below for instances of nonsensical signage.)

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Erratic Editing:

AI videos frequently exhibit unusually short or slow cuts. Rapid cuts often mask inconsistencies and inaccuracies, aiming for a semblance of realism. Conversely, excessively slow motion might serve the same purpose, concealing flaws at the limits of the AI's capabilities. (The Washed Out music video example below illustrates rapid cuts and potential anomalies.)

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Defiance of Physics:

AI excels at visually assembling pixels, but lacks understanding of physics and 3D space. Expect anomalies like people disappearing behind objects, inconsistent character appearances between scenes, oddly constructed buildings, and misaligned furniture. (The OpenAI Sora drone shot example below shows people merging into railings.)

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Uncanny Valley Effect:

AI-generated videos often possess an unnatural sheen, falling into the "uncanny valley." Characters might exhibit unsettlingly artificial smiles or hair movements. Inconsistencies in character appearance across scenes further hint at AI generation, as the AI struggles to maintain consistent representation. (See the Toys R Us brand film example for an illustration of this effect.)

Perfect or Imperfect Details:

AI-generated videos can be betrayed by either excessively perfect or insufficiently detailed elements. Repetitive patterns in building designs, vehicles, or materials might be too flawless for reality. Conversely, AI struggles with natural elements like hands, chins, or wind-blown leaves. (The Runway AI astronaut video highlights this with poorly rendered hands.)

Contextual Analysis:

Established methods for identifying misinformation remain relevant. Consider the source: A video from a reputable news organization is more trustworthy than one shared anonymously on social media. Cross-reference information with other sources, verify reported events, and assess the video's overall coherence. If the video features identifiable individuals, attempt to verify its authenticity with them directly.

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