TL; DR
- xAI has restricted Grok’s image generation and editing tools on X to paid subscribers only.
- This is a reaction to the widespread misuse involving sexualised bikini edits and deepfakes, including of women and apparent minors.
- Regulators in the UK, EU, and India have said the paywall does not go far enough, with further action under review.
xAI has rolled out new restrictions on Grok image generation features when accessed directly through X, making them available only to paid X Premium subscribers. The change went live on January 9, 2026, following intense backlash over how the tool was being abused to generate obscene images of people without their consent.
The controversy escalated in late December 2025 and early January 2026 after users began openly using Grok to create non-consensual sexualised bikini edits. By replying to photos with simple prompts, users were able to add bikinis, lingerie, or simulate nudity.
Reports showed that the tool often complied without refusal, even in cases involving images of apparent minors, raising concerns around consent, privacy, and child safety.
Much of the criticism focused on Grok’s permissive settings, including its so-called Spicy Mode, which lacked meaningful safeguards. Thousands of altered images were generated and shared publicly before restrictions were introduced, drawing attention from governments and regulators worldwide.
Elon Musk’s Response
Elon Musk, who oversees both X and xAI, responded by placing responsibility on users rather than the platform. He stated that anyone using Grok to produce illegal content, including child sexual abuse material, would face the same consequences as direct uploads, including account bans and potential law enforcement referrals. Musk described Grok as a neutral tool and rejected broader censorship approaches.
The Governments’ Reactions
The response has not satisfied regulators. In the UK, Technology Secretary Liz Kendall called the content “absolutely appalling,” while Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office criticised the paywall approach as inadequate. Ofcom has contacted xAI, and the government is reviewing possible action under the Online Safety Act.
In the European Union, the European Commission and French authorities have signalled that further enforcement may follow, including legal probes into sexualised and sexist content. In India, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has requested a detailed explanation from X on steps being taken to prevent obscene and exploitative material.
Who Can Edit Images Using Grok
To use Grok’s image features on X, users must now subscribe to X Premium or Premium+. In India, X Premium is priced at roughly ₹427 to ₹470 per month, while Premium+ ranges from around ₹2,570 to over ₹3,000 per month depending on plan and platform.
Web subscriptions are generally cheaper than mobile due to app store fees. Notably, Grok’s image generation remains available through the standalone Grok app and website, subject to age checks, meaning the restriction mainly applies to usage within X itself.
Critics argue that the change limits visibility rather than addressing the underlying issue, as paying users retain access to the same tools. With investigations ongoing in multiple regions, pressure is mounting on xAI and X to introduce stronger safeguards beyond just monetized access controls. What do you think of this change? Let us know in the comments section below.
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