Meta has removed a specific Instagram function that permitted users to generate AI images referencing photos from public accounts without notifying the original owners. The tool, part of the Muse Image rollout by Meta Superintelligence Labs, allowed anyone to @-mention a profile to create derivative artwork using that person’s style. This capability operated silently, failing to alert creators when their content was being repurposed. TechCrunch reported that the feature was disabled following a Friday announcement from the company acknowledging it missed the mark. Dylan Byers of Puck News noted that pressure came from both individual users and talent agencies, including CAA. The reversal highlights a persistent issue where AI tools on social platforms struggle to prevent misuse. Public figures and celebrities are already facing a surge in non-consensual imagery generated by these systems. Meta’s decision suggests that current guardrails are insufficient to stop bad actors from exploiting public content for inappropriate purposes. The company stated its intent was to provide a creative tool with user control, but feedback indicated the lack of notification was unacceptable.
- The feature allowed silent generation of images based on public profiles.
- CAA and other agencies voiced concerns about the lack of consent.
- Meta confirmed the tool was removed immediately after the backlash.
