technology
Meta Launches Muse Image AI Tool Using Public Instagram Photos with Opt-Out Option
Meta launched Muse Image on July 7, allowing U.S. users to generate AI images by tagging public Instagram accounts. Public-account holders must opt out to prevent future use of their photos. The tool drew immediate criticism from users and talent representatives over consent.
Jul 8, 3:52 PM·1m read8 sources
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Meta released its Muse Image AI tool on July 7. The feature lets U.S. users tag public Instagram accounts in text prompts so that photos from those profiles appear in generated images. It is available in the Meta AI app, web browsers, WhatsApp, and Instagram Stories.
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Users can supply detailed instructions, multiple reference images, and later edits. Private accounts and accounts belonging to users under 18 are automatically excluded. ” Meta stated that the tool includes eligibility rules, minor protections, and technical guardrails to block policy-violating content.
Users can report objectionable images by pressing and holding, selecting “thumbs down,” and choosing a reason. Turning off the reuse setting prevents new generations but does not remove images already created. SAG-AFTRA and Hollywood talent representatives have spoken out against the tool, saying it puts creators at risk.
Meta plans to add Muse Image to Facebook and Messenger, release an advertiser version, and develop a video-generation edition. The service is free for everyday use, with additional capacity available through paid subscriptions. Ofcom is investigating X over Grok’s role in creating and sharing non-consensual AI-altered images.
E.U. and U.K. data-protection rules require explicit consent for uses such as Muse Image.
