Elon Musk’s X Restricts Grok Image Editing To Paid Users

Elon Musk’s social media platform X has restricted image-editing features on its AI tool, Grok, to paid subscribers following widespread criticism over its use in creating sexualised deepfake images.

The move came after Grok was found to be honouring user requests to digitally alter images of individuals by removing their clothing without consent, triggering a significant public backlash.

According to the BBC, users attempting to generate such content are now being told that only paid subscribers can access the feature, a change that requires users’ names and payment details to be on file.

The development followed calls from the UK Government urging media regulator Ofcom to use all available powers, including the possibility of an effective ban, against X over concerns about unlawful AI-generated images on the platform.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the creation of sexualised images of adults and children via Grok as “disgraceful” and “disgusting,” saying the government would not tolerate such content.

“It’s unlawful. We’re not going to tolerate it. I’ve asked for all options to be on the table,” he said in an interview with Greatest Hits Radio.

Government sources told BBC News they expected Ofcom to “use all powers at its disposal” in addressing the issue.

Under the Online Safety Act, Ofcom can seek court orders to prevent third parties from assisting the Elon Musk-owned platform in raising funds or accessing users in the UK.