Meta has introduced a new artificial intelligence image-generation technology that allows users to modify pictures on public accounts to create new images. This development has sparked criticism among tech analysts and users, who argue that it should be opt-in for Instagram users.
The technology, developed by Meta Superintelligence Labs, enables users to manipulate and edit images from any public Instagram account, including profile pictures, unless the user changes a setting available only in the Instagram app under the “Sharing and reuse” tab in the settings menu.
“This is the sort of setting that should absolutely be opt-in for Instagram users,” said an analyst. “It’s a new use of the photos they’ve been posting publicly for years, and certainly wasn’t on anyone’s mind when they signed up for Instagram years ago.”
Even if a user now disables the use of AI image generation on their content, the existing AI-generated images won’t be removed. Meta did not respond to a request for comment on the matter.
The new technology has been released alongside an upgraded version of Meta’s reasoning engine, Muse Spark 1.1, which represents the company’s latest efforts to pursue its vision of personal “superintelligence” and compete with other AI players.
Concerns have arisen about whether these AI image-generation technologies are prioritizing users’ and creators’ safety and privacy. “No one’s name, image, likeness, voice or creative work should be used by any third party, including AI models, without clear, documented consent,” said a statement.
Meta had previously relied on third-party AI models for image and video generation, but has now developed its own models, including Muse image, which is available in the Meta app and on Instagram stories in the United States. It is expected to be available on Facebook soon.
Meta also launched a public preview of the new Meta Model API, available in “Thinking” mode, where developers can access the Muse Spark 1.1 in the Meta AI app and on meta.ai.
The company plans to deploy seven gigawatts of computing infrastructure, which is expected to support its AI ambitions. Meta expects to spend up to $145 billion on AI infrastructure this year and has secured multiyear supply agreements with companies.
CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently said that the Agentic AI tech is progressing more slowly than expected, but Meta remains committed to its vision of personal “superintelligence” and its place in the AI ecosystem.
