Instagram users have long been utilizing various filters and techniques to enhance their photos, so it may not come as a surprise that Meta, the parent company of Instagram, introduced new generative AI effects to elevate content creation.
However, following backlash, Meta has decided to retract a significant feature of this new tool. Shortly after its launch, the company disabled a feature that allowed AI users to tag an Instagram account and generate images using content from that account.
To prevent others from generating photos with their content, Instagram users had to manually opt out of this feature, if they were even aware of its existence.
In response to the feedback received, a Meta spokesperson stated in an email to CBC News that “We’ve heard the feedback that this feature missed the mark, so it’s no longer available.”
Initially introduced on Tuesday, Muse Image offers over 30 new effects for Instagram stories and WhatsApp. It is expected to be made available for Facebook and Messenger in the future.
Despite its launch for U.S. users on Instagram Stories and WhatsApp, Canadians could access some new features directly on the Meta AI website. However, it was revealed that Meta AI permissions were automatically enabled for users with public accounts in other countries, including Canada, necessitating manual opt-out.
As of the last update, Meta had not confirmed whether the controversial Instagram tagging feature would be reintroduced. Concerns were raised by both users and privacy experts following the feature’s announcement, with guides shared on how to opt out of it.
Katrina German, founder and CEO of Ethical Digital, expressed concerns about the potential misuse of the feature, emphasizing the importance of obtaining permission before using someone’s images.
For those looking to disable Muse Image and Meta AI permissions, the process can only be done on mobile devices currently. Users need to navigate to the “Settings and activity” section and locate the Meta AI permissions to toggle them off.
By turning off permissions, users can avoid having their publicly posted pictures used by Instagram’s Muse AI feature. Additionally, making an account private is another option to enhance privacy settings.
Meta describes Muse Image as an “intelligent creative partner” that allows users to apply preset AI-generated effects or create custom effects using prompts. Users can mention someone’s account using the @ symbol to generate AI effects with their photos.
Concerns have been raised about the potential misuse of AI tools like Muse Image, with Katrina German highlighting the need for increased user control over their images to prevent unauthorized use.
Various AI image or video-generation tools exist, including those from companies like Google Gemini and Adobe Photoshop. Meta and other platforms have faced scrutiny over AI features and their potential privacy implications.
In conclusion, the introduction of Muse Image by Meta has sparked discussions about user privacy and control over their content, highlighting the importance of clear opt-out options and user consent in the digital age.