Grok, Elon Musk’s AI tool, has switched off its image creation function for non-paying users after a widespread outcry about its use to create sexually explicit and violent imagery.

Axar.az reports, citing Guardian, the move comes after Musk was threatened with fines, regulatory action and reports of a possible ban on X in the UK.

The tool had been used to manipulate images of women to remove their clothes and put them in sexualised positions. The function to do so has been switched off except for paying subscribers.

Posting on X, Musk’s social media network, Grok said: “Image generation and editing are currently limited to paying subscribers.”

That means the vast majority of users of the platform cannot create images using Grok. Those who do have their full details and credit card information stored by X, so can be identified if the function is misused.