With its latest move, Elon Musk’s AI company xAI has certainly done something audacious. To combat widespread illegal use of its image generation technology, it recently limited Grok’s image generation feature to paying subscribers only. Grok was intended to be available to all users, subject to daily limits. It let users upload images of their likeness and request edits, including the creation of sexualized or nude versions. This capacity has been subject to speedy backlash for its use in generating non-consensual sexualized likenesses. It preyed upon sensitive populations, such as children, actors, models, and high-profile figures.
The criticism from other countries grew stronger as news leaked out on the misuse of Grok’s image generation features. In reaction to the alarming circumstance, public health agencies began to pay attention. U.K.’s communications regulator, the Office of Communications (Ofcom), recently confirmed it had opened communication with xAI about the feature’s extravagant implications. Regulators in the U.K., European Union, and India have declared a hard no against X and Grok. Their outcry focused on both companies, condemning them for enabling these practices.
Provided on the heels of growing concerns, xAI has moved to address these concerns. They have recently restricted Grok’s capabilities to only subscribers to their service. This enforcement action aims to stop future abuse of the technology. Hateful content has already increased as a result. The company found that it could lean into its policies of prohibiting the distribution of illegal content on its platform.
“Anyone using Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content.” – Elon Musk
Negative feedback on Grok is increasing. Most recently, people have rightfully been outraged that the platform is a tool for users to create sexualized and nude images, primarily of women and children. The chorus of global condemnation further illustrates the need for responsible development and deployment of AI, as well as greater regulatory frameworks to prevent these tools’ abuse.
Elon Musk and his company have recently come out against the creation of non-consensual images through Grok. They reiterated their pledge to public accountability and upholding the rule of law and ethical expectations. As a first step, xAI is encouraging responsible use of the technology among its paying subscribers. This initiative is a key piece of their plan to address the most urgent issues.