AUSTIN: Concerns about generative artificial intelligence interfering with global elections this year were largely unfounded, according to Meta Platforms.

On Tuesday, Meta reported that generative AI had a muted impact on its apps, Facebook and Instagram.

Nick Clegg, Meta's president of global affairs, explained that coordinated networks attempting to spread propaganda or misinformation using AI were mostly unsuccessful in gaining significant traction.

The company managed to swiftly label or remove the limited AI-generated misinformation found.

Misinformation experts noted that AI content, including deepfake videos and audio such as those featuring President Joe Biden's voice, have not significantly swayed public opinion, often being quickly debunked.

Networks spreading false content are now shifting to platforms with fewer safety measures, or are utilizing their own websites.

Meta reported dismantling around 20 covert influence operations this year, while adjusting its content moderation strategy.

After facing feedback regarding potentially unfair content removals, and criticism from Republican lawmakers about censorship, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg expressed regret over some enforcement decisions under administrative pressure.

Meta plans to balance content moderation with better enforcement precision to protect free expression.