Instagram users have been utilizing various filters and techniques for enhancing their photos, so it was somewhat expected when Meta, the parent company, introduced new generative AI effects to elevate content quality.
However, following backlash, Meta has retracted a significant aspect of the new tool.
Shortly after its launch, the company disabled a feature that allowed AI users to tag an Instagram account and have the system generate images incorporating photos from that account.
To prevent others from generating photos with their content, Instagram users would need to manually opt out if they were aware of the feature.
In response to criticism, a Meta spokesperson mentioned in an email to CBC News that “We’ve heard the feedback that this feature missed the mark, so it’s no longer available.”
Initially launched on Tuesday, Muse Image by Meta offers over 30 new effects for Instagram stories and WhatsApp, with plans to extend to Facebook and Messenger in the future.
According to Instagram’s blog post, these effects can enhance photos with a single tap, marking it as the “first AI image generation model from Meta Superintelligence Lab,” while also hinting at the forthcoming Muse Video development.
Although Muse Image is currently limited to U.S. users on Instagram Stories and WhatsApp, Canadians can access some new features directly on the Meta AI website.
It was revealed in the initial announcement that Meta AI permissions are automatically enabled for users with public accounts in countries like Canada and must be manually disabled.
Meta had not confirmed whether the controversial Instagram tagging feature would be reintroduced in the future at the time of the last publication. Concerns were raised promptly by users and privacy experts upon its initial announcement, prompting guides on opting out.
“People don’t appreciate their images being used without permission,” stated Katrina German, founder and CEO of Ethical Digital, to CBC News.
While some users may find the feature entertaining, German is apprehensive about potential misuse.
Here’s a concise overview of Muse Image and steps to adjust Instagram settings.
How can I disable it?
To get straight to the point, users are eager to know if Meta will automatically enroll them in future AI features.
The permissions for Muse Image and Meta AI to leverage photos for image generation are enabled by default, even for non-users of the tool.
This setting is distinct from disabling Meta AI’s search assistant and chatbot on Instagram.
Disabling it can currently be done solely on mobile devices. Navigate to “Settings and activity” and scroll down to the “Sharing and reuse” section.
There, users can locate the Meta AI permissions.
