Meta has abruptly removed a controversial feature that enabled users to generate synthetic images using content from Instagram through its artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
This feature was part of the broader launch of Muse Image, a pioneering AI image generation tool from Instagram’s parent company, which debuted on Tuesday.
Users could leverage the Meta AI chatbot to tag public Instagram accounts and utilize their content for creating AI-generated or altered images.
However, the feature faced immediate backlash over privacy violations, leading Meta to acknowledge that the feature “missed the mark” and is now no longer available.
Muse Image marked Meta’s initial venture into AI-generated imagery, but the automatic opt-in for Instagram users raised significant concerns.
This default setting meant that anyone with a public profile could have their likeness exploited without prior consent.
Hollywood union SAG-AFTRA hailed the removal as a “victory,” noting that the company previously urged its members and “all Instagram users” to act against potential misuse of their likenesses, highlighting a “complete miscalculation of public sentiment” regarding the inherent risks.
Privacy International, a London-based human rights group, also condemned the feature, stating to the BBC that it is “the latest indication that AI companies view people’s images and data as mere resources to exploit.”
“Our aim was to provide a helpful creative tool while ensuring individuals have control over the visibility of their published content,” Meta remarked in response to the feature’s retirement. “We’re actively listening to the feedback.”
When Meta launched Muse Image, external, the company stated that its features were limited to Instagram, but additional AI functionalities and integrations are planned for WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger.
Furthermore, AI video tools are currently in development.
Meta declined to provide further comments.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk