Instagram has become the most widely used social media platform in the country. People use this app for many things like watching reels or connecting through posts and followers. Meanwhile, Meta recently launched an AI generation tool called ‘Muse’ on the app. However, there was considerable opposition to this tool. In view of the growing opposition from users, Meta has quietly removed this feature from the platform. Let us know the whole story.
**Why was this feature removed?**
According to media reports, Meta said in its official blog that this feature was launched to give users a new creative tool. Additionally, the tool allows users to decide whether their posts can be used for AI purposes. However, backlash from users suggests that the feature did not live up to expectations, so it has been removed from the platform for now. However, the AI image generation system behind Muse will remain available as before.
**What did the Government of India say?**
The Government of India has also seriously considered this matter. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) said that the government will investigate this feature. Officials said that if complaints are received, the entire matter will be investigated as per Indian law. This is especially important for India, as the government has recently been taking strict action against deepfakes and AI-generated images created without consent. The government has earlier sought clarification from several companies about their AI tools.
**Protests around the world**
Opposition to this feature was not limited to the general public only. SAG-AFTRA, the US-based artist union, advised its members to exercise caution. Major talent agency CAA said that a person’s face, name, voice or image should not be used in AI models without their explicit consent. Many privacy advocacy groups have also criticized Meta, saying that AI companies are simply using people’s personal photos as data. What does this decision mean?
Meta’s decision shows that when launching new AI-related features, user privacy and consent are as important as the technology itself. This step, taken after growing opposition, shows that the company needs to prioritize making AI features more secure in the future.
Why did users oppose it?
The main reason for the protest was that all public Instagram accounts were automatically included in this feature. This meant that if users did not want their posts to be used for AI purposes, they had to change their own settings.
Additionally, Meta did not inform users that their profiles were being used to create AI images. This led to concerns that his photographs could be misused without his consent. However, the company kept private accounts and accounts of users under 18 years of age separate from this feature.
What is Muse Image?
Muse Image is Meta’s new AI tool that creates images based on natural language cues. It allows photo editing—such as removing objects, placing a person in front of a famous landmark, enhancing an old photo, or creating a new interior design based on a room photo. Meta plans to soon bring this tool to Facebook, Messenger and its advertising platform.
Why is this important for India?
This controversy is not limited to meta only. The big question is whether AI companies can use people’s photos without their consent. The Government of India is currently investigating this matter. If any violation of rules is found in the investigation, clarification may be sought from Meta. It is expected that this case will play an important role in deciding future rules related to AI and privacy in India.