Our journey to becoming the world’s first ISO 42001-compliant AI video company

Synthesia Becomes First Company in the World to Obtain Historic ISO/IEC 42001 Certification
Here at Synthesia, we’ve been at the forefront of ethical innovation from the outset. Since 2017, it has been our aim to advance the frontiers of generative AI and enable organizations to produce top-notch video content for business communication — a commitment that has now helped us achieve ISO/IEC 42001 certification, setting a new benchmark for responsible AI governance in our industry.

Over the past seven years, we’ve built a trust- and transparency-based relationship that has enabled over one million customers, including numerous Fortune 500 companies, to trust our platform comfortably.

 

Now, we are excited to share with you a major milestone: Synthesia is the first AI video business in the world to be certified ISO/IEC 42001 after a rigorous independent audit.

What does This Certification Entails?

ISO 42001 is the first international standard dedicated entirely to the governance of responsible AI. It sets standards for an Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS) that can guarantee the safe development and deployment of AI technologies, as part of an ethical and transparent approach.

 

As one of the earliest companies to go through and succeed in this audit, Synthesia sets the new industry standard for responsible AI systems and governance.

The Certification Process

 

We started the ISO 42001 certification process early in 2024, just after the standard was completed. To hit this mark:

We collaborated closely with A-LIGN, a global security and compliance leader.

 

• A-LIGN performed a witness audit, where an ANAB auditor witnessed the audit process to assess the competency and quality of the certification body.

• The Stage 2 audit encompassed 18 days of thorough assessment, from internal controls right through to data handling and ethical AI precautions.

• The audit closed out with no remaining non-conformities, a true reflection of our robust AI governance framework.

 

A-LIGN Director of ISO Emily Schuckman commented:

“Synthesia’s passion for AI and dedication to security and high standards are truly commendable. We feel privileged to have worked on this journey and wish them all the best for continued success in the future.”

Why ISO 42001 is Important to the Industry?

AI is getting increasingly embedded in business processes. With that, there will be more emphasis on ethical usage, data privacy, risk management, and regulation.

 

This year, 27% of Fortune 500 firms listed AI compliance as a business risk, with regulatory fines, trust, and competitiveness being the concerns.

The ISO 42001 standard provides the sector with a clear, consistent structure to address these challenges responsibly.

Herman Errico, Vanta Senior Product Manager, commented:

“Synthesia’s ISO 42001 certification is a sign of their commitment to responsible AI. Coupled with other security certifications, it shows a progressive approach to governance and risk management.”

What Does This Mean for Our Partners and Customers?

Although we have always had a robust internal Responsible AI framework, obtaining ISO 42001 certification:

 

• Standardizes our governance processes

• Enhances trust and transparency

• Verifies our commitment to customer data protection

• Positions Synthesia as an industry leader in ethical AI development

 

As global conversations on AI regulation continue to build steam, we anticipate that ISO 42001 will be a fundamental requirement for serious AI platforms in the near future.

Audit Highlights

• Performed by A-LIGN, a well-respected security and compliance audit firm

• Included a complete witness audit witnessed by ANAB

• 18 audit days, over system controls, operational policy, and evidence of in-use implementation

• Finished with no non-conformities

 

This assures us that our internal policies are not just strong on paper but practiced consistently across our organization.

Conclusion

Winning ISO/IEC 42001 certification is not just a milestone—it is a testament to our strong dedication to responsible AI development. Being a pioneer in AI video production, we take our social responsibility seriously to establish trust, guarantee safety, and set the right example. This certification reiterates our commitment to producing AI solutions that are safe, transparent, and compliant with the best global standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is ISO/IEC 42001?

ISO/IEC 42001 is a global standard that specifies requirements for responsibly governing AI systems. It maintains ethical, transparent, and secure AI development and implementation.

2. Why is this certification significant?

It gives organizations confidence that Synthesia develops and controls AI responsibly, safeguarding users, data integrity, and system reliability.

3. Who conducted the Synthesia audit?

The audit was carried out by A-LIGN under the oversight of ANAB during a witness audit.

4. Does this certification have an impact on how Synthesia functions?

Yes. It formalizes and makes consistent internal AI governance procedures, thus ensuring responsible decision-making throughout the company.

5. Will ISO 42001 be adopted by other AI firms?

We expect this certification to become a worldwide standard for providers of AI systems as regulators and organizations continue to emphasize responsible AI governance.

6. How does this benefit Synthesia users?

 

Customers receive more confidence and assurance, knowing that Synthesia operates under best-in-class ethical and operational standards for AI.