Meta Halts Automatic Integration of AI-Generated Photos from Instagram After Backlash

Meta discontinued a new feature allowing AI image generation based on public Instagram accounts just three days after its launch, citing privacy and copyright concerns. The tool, which automatically used public accounts without explicit user consent, faced criticism for enabling unauthorized AI synthesis of personal content. The company stated its intent was to provide creators with control over how their content is used, but acknowledged user dissatisfaction and opted to disable the feature. The controversial function was part of Meta's Muse Image AI model, which allows image generation from photos and sketch editing. Critics argued the lack of opt-in consent and notification mechanisms exacerbated privacy risks, prompting backlash from users, tech media, and Hollywood, including calls for transparency and stronger user controls.