Meta Pulls Back AI Image Feature After Privacy Outcry
Meta abruptly removed its newly launched Muse Image tool that let users create AI‑generated or altered images from anyone’s public Instagram posts. The feature, unveiled on Tuesday, allowed people to tag accounts and use their content as fodder for AI rendering.
The move came after backlash from privacy advocates and industry unions that warned public accounts could be exploited without owners’ consent. The Hollywood union Sag‑Aftra called the decision a “win” and accused Meta of a “miscalculation of public sentiment.”
The London‑based human‑rights charity Privacy International also slammed the tool, saying it “was the latest sign that AI companies see people’s images and data as raw material to be exploited.”
In a statement, Meta said it had intended to give users control over whether their public content could be used. “We’ve heard the feedback,” the company added.
The company’s first attempt at AI image generation had been limited to Instagram, but Meta had signalled plans to roll similar features to WhatsApp, Facebook and Messenger, including an upcoming AI video tool.
The feature was removed from the Meta app and has not yet been replaced by another. Meta declined to provide further details about future AI integrations.
