Global Outcry Spurs Changes in Elon Musk's AI Chatbot Grok

Elon Musk's AI chatbot, Grok, faces global backlash over its 'spicy mode' feature allowing explicit content creation. Governments and regulators across the globe, including California, launch investigations and demand regulatory measures. xAI announces geoblocking of images violating local laws and limits editing features to paid users.

Elon Musk's AI chatbot, Grok, is under global scrutiny after backlash over its capacity to produce sexualized images of women and children. Released on Wednesday, a statement on X confirmed Grok's editing restrictions, particularly in regions where altering photos to display real people in revealing clothing is prohibited by law.

Initially downplaying concerns with a statement calling it "legacy media lies," xAI has now announced that Grok will geoblock content violating local laws. "We have put technological measures in place to prevent Grok from allowing the editing of images of real people in revealing clothing like bikinis or underwear," the company announced, applying the rule to all users, including subscribers.

The controversial "spicy mode," which facilitated the creation of explicit content, led to bans in Malaysia and Indonesia and drew warnings from entities, including the UK, EU, and states like California. The British government hailed the recent policy changes as it continues its investigation, while California's AG warned xAI against continued harassment of women and girls.

(With inputs from agencies.)