The Canadian government has opened a new national consultation examining how technology companies and AI developers should improve transparency around artificial intelligence-generated content.

The consultation, which began in July, is part of Canada's broader AI for All strategy and focuses on potential tools that could help Canadians recognize when they are interacting with AI systems or viewing AI-generated material.

One proposal under consideration is watermarking AI-generated content, which could provide users with clearer signals when photographs, videos, audio or other digital material has been created or significantly altered using artificial intelligence.

The government is also seeking views on how transparency measures could work across different AI technologies without creating unnecessary barriers for Canadian technology companies.

Technology experts say stronger identification standards could become increasingly important as generative AI becomes capable of producing highly realistic multimedia content. Clear disclosure mechanisms could help users distinguish authentic material from synthetic content and potentially reduce confusion caused by misleading digital media.

The consultation is scheduled to remain open until September 23, 2026, giving technology companies, researchers, civil society organizations and Canadians an opportunity to provide feedback.

The initiative represents another step in Canada's effort to build a trusted and competitive AI ecosystem, while balancing technological innovation with transparency, accountability and public confidence.