Meta launched a new AI image feature that let users generate content from public Instagram posts and reels, but the tool was pulled late Friday after privacy concerns erupted. The company said the intent was to offer a creative tool with user control, but feedback indicated it "missed the mark," so the feature is no longer available. The rollout had been announced last week and was enabled by default for accounts that weren’t private, tying into Meta’s Muse Image model. Critics argued that the default setting exposed users’ public media to AI generation without explicit consent. Meta’s statement emphasized that it heard the criticism and acted quickly to remove the option.

The removal comes amid other Meta announcements, including $299 smart glasses and a "super sensing" prototype, highlighting the company’s aggressive push into AI and wearable tech while navigating user privacy expectations.