X has introduced a new AI image generator named Aurora, adding to its Grok AI features. The rollout began over the past weekend and aims to provide users the ability to create realistic images from textual prompts. This tool notably allows the generation of photo-realistic images of public figures, including potentially controversial depictions of famous politicians without stringent content restrictions. Aurora’s launch comes shortly after Grok became available for free for all users, although limitations on daily usage remain.
The Aurora image generator reportedly enhances the existing capabilities of the Grok chatbot by producing images that resemble actual photographs more closely. Early tests demonstrated that it could produce bizarre images. The generator discarded traditional safeguards that many mainstream AI image generators use to prevent the inclusion of real people or copyrighted material in prompts. However, it maintains a policy against generating nude images.
The implementation of Aurora raises questions regarding content moderation and the potential risks associated with its use. The generator’s limited restriction on content has been highlighted by its ability to produce provocative images involving political figures. TechCrunch and PCMag shared instances where Aurora created unflattering designs, provoking discussions about ethical issues surrounding the use of AI in visual representation.
Access to Aurora may not be uniformly available, as reports indicate some users have yet to find the tool in their app, suggesting that further testing or gradual rollout may still be occurring. This raises uncertainties about the reliability of access across the user base.
The emergence of AI tools like Aurora coincides with growing regulatory scrutiny concerning AI-generated content. Recent legislative changes in California have focused on controlling deepfakes, especially those related to political candidates. In September 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom signed three bills that impose strict guidelines on unmarked AI-generated images, particularly in the lead-up to elections. These new regulations have provoked a legal backlash, with X filing a lawsuit challenging the enforceability of these laws after claiming they could inhibit artistic expression, equating the situation to making parody illegal.
Featured image credit: Alexander Shatov/Unsplash
