Meta scraps AI image feature days after launch following privacy backlash

Meta scrapped its newly launched AI image feature after days of privacy backlash, canceling Muse Image that allowed users to generate images using public Instagram accounts. Meta said on Friday it is discontinuing the tool after criticism, including from SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ and media professionals’ union. The company said its aim had been to provide a “creative tool” and give users control over whether public content could be referenced, but it noted feedback indicated the feature “missed the mark,” so it is no longer available. Muse Image, integrated into Meta AI, launched Tuesday and could use photos as input, with editing through sketches. Critics said the feature functioned as an automatic opt-in for users. SAG-AFTRA urged an opt-out, warning that anything other than a clear opt-in is unacceptable. Following Meta’s reversal, the union welcomed the removal as a responsible step.