The new tool was developed by Meta Superintelligence Labs and is available on Meta AI, Instagram Stories, and WhatsApp. It allows users to create and edit images using text prompts, as well as apply AI effects to photos.
The main source of concern is a feature that allows users to create images using public photos from Instagram users with public profiles, according to TechCrunch. In some cases, simply tagging a person’s account is enough to use their photos as the basis for a new image generated by artificial intelligence.
Digital security experts believe that such capabilities could create new privacy risks. Users fear that their photos could be used to create unwanted content or digital images without their explicit permission.
Meta states that users can adjust their privacy settings to restrict the use of their photos in the company’s AI features. However, the platform’s policy allows for the creation of content using public Instagram material.
Beyond this controversial feature, Muse Image is part of Meta’s broader strategy to develop generative artificial intelligence. The company views AI tools as a growth area for advertising, social media, and e-commerce.
Meta is also working on the next version of the technology—Muse Video—which is expected to focus on creating video content using AI.
The launch of the new tool comes amid ongoing mistrust of Meta’s policies regarding user data processing. The company has already faced serious criticism following the Cambridge Analytica scandal, which led to increased scrutiny from regulators.
The Muse Image story shows that for tech companies, the development of generative AI is becoming not only a matter of new opportunities but also a challenge in the area of personal data protection and users’ digital rights.
