X has restricted Grok’s image-generation and editing features to paying subscribers after a backlash over sexualized deepfakes, including images of women and children. The move drew swift rebukes from regulators: the European Commission called the images unlawful and ordered X to preserve Grok-related documents through 2026, while the U.K.’s data watchdog sought details on data-protection compliance and Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office labeled the paywall approach “insulting” and ineffective. The standalone Grok app still enables image creation without a subscription. Elon Musk warned users they face the same penalties as if they uploaded illegal content directly. The controversy, following earlier criticism of Grok for antisemitic responses, highlights mounting regulatory and reputational risks for X and xAI as governments push platforms to prevent the generation of illegal AI content.
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