Writers condemn startup's plans to publish 8k books next year using AI

Writers and publishers are expressing strong criticism towards a startup named Spines, which plans to publish up to 8,000 books in the coming year using artificial intelligence. The company intends to charge authors between $1,200 and $5,000 for services such as proofreading, formatting, and distribution, all facilitated by AI. Critics argue that Spines is prioritizing profit over the quality of literature, with independent publisher Canongate labeling the initiative as lacking care for writing. Authors like Suyi Davies Okungbowa and Deidre J Owen have described Spines as opportunistic and akin to vanity publishing. Despite Spines claiming that authors will retain 100% of their royalties and that they are not a vanity publisher, concerns remain about the originality and quality of the content produced through AI. The Society of Authors has warned potential authors to be cautious about entering contracts that require them to pay for publication, suggesting that such routes are unlikely to fulfill their publishing aspirations. Spines asserts that its technology will expedite the publishing process to just two to three weeks, aiming to democratize access to publishing for aspiring authors. The company has recently raised $16 million in funding and aims to help one million authors publish their works.

- Spines plans to publish 8,000 books next year using AI, charging authors significant fees.

- Critics argue the initiative undermines the quality of literature and resembles vanity publishing.

- The Society of Authors advises caution for authors considering contracts with Spines.

- Spines claims to streamline the publishing process to two to three weeks.

- The startup has raised $16 million in funding to support its operations.