Meta has removed a specific function from its Muse Image model that allowed users to generate AI portraits of other people by simply mentioning their public Instagram handles. This capability required no permission from the subject and operated by default, forcing individuals to manually disable it within their account settings to prevent their likeness from being created. The company acknowledged the feature missed its intended mark and deactivated it just days after launch following intense backlash regarding consent and privacy.
The removal highlights the friction between generative AI convenience and data protection regulations, particularly in Europe where such practices face stricter legal scrutiny. While Meta initially framed the tool as a way to give people control over their digital footprint, the implementation proved the opposite by defaulting to usage without explicit agreement. This reversal suggests that viral appeal does not guarantee long-term viability when a product violates fundamental expectations of user agency.
- The feature was active by default for all public accounts.
- Users had to manually opt out to stop image generation.
- Meta stated the tool failed to provide the promised control.
