Global pressure forces xAI to limit Grok image features

Grok image editing restrictions have been introduced by Elon Musk’s AI company xAI following growing concern from regulators in California, Europe, and Asia over sexually explicit AI-generated images shared on X.

xAI moves to limit Grok image editing

Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company, xAI, announced late Wednesday that it has restricted image editing features on its Grok chatbot for all users. The move follows widespread criticism after Grok generated sexualized images of real people, including minors.

In a post on X, xAI said it has added safeguards to prevent users from editing images of real people into revealing clothing such as bikinis. The company confirmed that the restriction applies to both free and paid users.

Sexualized AI Images Spark Global Alarm

The controversy erupted after hyper-realistic images of women appeared online, altered to show them in degrading poses, minimal clothing, or with visible bruises. In several cases, AI tools digitally altered images of minors, triggering strong backlash from governments and advocacy groups.

Regulators across Europe and Asia have since demanded tighter controls, warning that AI-generated sexual content may violate child protection and digital safety laws.

California Officials Demand Accountability

In the United States, California officials took a strong stance. Governor Gavin Newsom urged Attorney General Rob Bonta to investigate xAI and hold the company accountable.

Attorney General Bonta said his office is seeking immediate answers on how xAI plans to stop the creation and spread of nonconsensual sexualized imagery. This marks the strongest response yet from U.S. authorities addressing AI-generated abuse on social media.

Musk Responds as Pressure Mounts

Elon Musk initially dismissed the controversy with humorous reactions on X. However, as criticism intensified, X stated that it takes reports of child sexual abuse material seriously and enforces strict moderation policies.

Musk later claimed he was unaware of any nude images of minors generated by Grok. xAI has not directly responded to questions from California officials but stated it blocks image generation in jurisdictions where such content is illegal.

Calls to Remove Grok From App Stores

The growing backlash has prompted lawmakers and advocacy groups to call on companies like Apple and Google to remove Grok from their app stores until stronger safeguards are in place.

Last week, xAI also limited Grok’s image generation and editing tools to paying subscribers, though Reuters confirmed the chatbot continued producing explicit images privately before the latest restrictions.

The introduction of Grok image editing restrictions reflects mounting global pressure on AI companies to address misuse and protect users. As regulators tighten oversight, xAI now faces increasing scrutiny over how its technology operates across different regions.