Grok image-editing features restricted to paid X users following deepfake backlash
Elon Musk’s social media platform X has restricted image-editing features of its artificial intelligence tool Grok. These features are now limited to paying subscribers. This decision came after criticism over the creation of sexualised deepfake images.
The change follows mounting concern. The AI chatbot was complying with user requests to digitally alter photographs of real people. This included requests to remove clothing. These actions occurred without consent. Critics warned that the tool was being misused to generate abusive and degrading content.
People trying to edit images through Grok on X now receive a notice. The notice states that image generation and editing are restricted to subscribers. This means only accounts linked to payment details and a verified subscription can access the feature. Non-paying users can still use Grok’s image tools via its standalone app and website.
X has been contacted for comment.
Political and regulatory pressure
The decision comes amid increasing pressure from the UK government. The communications regulator Ofcom is also involved. This follows reports that Grok had been used to generate sexualised images of both adults and children.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the creation of such content as “disgraceful.” He also called it “disgusting.” He said the government would not tolerate unlawful AI-generated material online.
He confirmed that Ofcom has full backing to act, including the strongest enforcement options available under the Online Safety Act. These powers enable the regulator to seek court orders. Such orders could restrict a platform’s ability to operate in the UK. They also impact the platform’s ability to generate revenue if serious breaches are found.
Government sources said regulators are expected to use “all powers at their disposal” in relation to Grok and X.
Experts question the approach
Legal experts have criticised the move to restrict access rather than prevent abuse outright. Professor Clare McGlynn is a specialist in online abuse and sexual violence regulation. She said limiting the feature to paying users does not address the underlying harm.
She argued that requiring payment and verified identities does little to stop the creation of abusive material. Instead, it shifts responsibility away from the platform’s safeguards.
According to McGlynn, the move mirrors earlier responses by X to AI-generated explicit images of public figures. These include pop star Taylor Swift. In those instances, searches were temporarily blocked. The technology itself was not redesigned to prevent misuse.
How Grok works
Grok is an AI chatbot integrated into X. Users can tag it in posts or replies to request text responses. They can also request image edits. Initially, it was promoted as a creative and conversational tool. However, its image-editing capabilities quickly drew criticism. Users started requesting revealing alterations of photographs featuring real people.
Several individuals whose images were altered have described the experience as humiliating and dehumanizing.
As scrutiny of generative AI intensifies worldwide, regulators and governments are increasingly demanding stronger safeguards to prevent misuse. It remains to be seen whether restricting access to paid users will satisfy regulators. Alternatively, it will lead to further action against X.