AI Generated Image
Meta Removes A.I. Feature on Instagram After Days of Backlash
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- Meta has paused a new Instagram AI feature that generated images using public account photos without user consent, following widespread criticism over privacy and copyright concerns.
- The feature automatically opted in all public Instagram users, leading to backlash from users and industry groups who argued it exploited likenesses without permission.
- Meta stated the feature “missed the mark” and has been disabled, though other AI tools like Muse Image remain available on WhatsApp and the Meta AI app.
- Hollywood agencies and unions, including Creative Artists Agency and SAG-AFTRA, condemned the feature for disregarding artists’ rights and public sentiment on AI usage.
- Despite the setback, Meta continues to advance its AI initiatives, recently updating its Muse Spark model and planning to launch an AI video generator soon.
