Meta has launched Muse Image, an AI tool that allows users to generate and edit images using publicly posted Instagram photos. The feature, integrated into Meta AI and Instagram, enables users to tag public accounts in prompts, drawing from their photos to create customized AI-generated content. Public accounts are opted in by default, meaning users must manually disable the feature to prevent their content from being used.
Critics, including talent agencies and privacy advocates, have raised concerns about the lack of explicit consent. CAA, a major talent agency, called for Meta to make opt-in the default setting, arguing that artists should control how their likeness and work are used. SAG-AFTRA also criticized the rollout, stating that anything other than a clear opt-in mechanism is unacceptable.
Meta describes Muse Image as a 'creative partner' that can generate personalized images, including custom invitations, graphics, and artistic reimaginings. The tool is part of Meta's broader push to compete with AI image generators from OpenAI, Google, and others. However, privacy advocates argue that default opt-in settings leave users with insufficient control over how their content is repurposed.
Users can disable the feature in Instagram settings under the 'Sharing and reuse' tab, where separate toggles for posts and reels are available. Existing AI-generated images made with a user's content will not be removed, and users will not be notified if their content is used by others.