Elon Musk’s AI company, xAI, has limited access to Grok‘s controversial image-generation feature exclusively to paying subscribers on its platform, X. The agency issued the decision in direct response to an uproar. There is widespread alarm over the tool’s potential to produce sexualized and non-consensual images of people — including children. At first, Grok made image generation available to every user, imposing daily limits on use. After facing intense international condemnation, it has now enacted draconian measures.
The Grok feature let users upload their own images and ask for specific edits to be made to them, including the creation of sexualized or nude versions. This feature resulted in the widespread creation of non-consensual images of children, actors, models, and other public figures. The backlash was swift and loud. Countries criticized both X and Grok, arguing that they did not do enough to prevent dangerous content.
Meanwhile in the U.K., communications regulators have been in contact with xAI due to the feature’s alarming consequences. Soon European Union joined in the denunciation, releasing public statements condemning the platform for facilitating this kind of misuse. In much the same way, the Indian government’s recent condemnation of Grok’s potential serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible AI governance.
X and Musk have been on the offensive against the increasing criticism. To their credit, both of them have publicly condemned the production of illicit content with their tools.
“Anyone using Grok to make illegal content will suffer the same consequences as if they upload illegal content.” – Elon Musk
This statement highlights their intention to strongly enforce their policies against sharing illegal material on the platform. As we discussed in our accountability assessment, xAI has made a bold commitment to its users. Moving forward, the image generation and editing features are available exclusively to paying subscribers.
The decision to limit access seems motivated much more by protecting against additional backlash and maintaining their own community’s standards on the platform. However, on the flip side, it increases accountability of users and raises a host of ethical considerations related to AI-generated content.
