Adore Me, an online underwear brand owned by Victoria’s Secret, has recently introduced a new AI feature that allows users to impose images of swastikas, corporate logos, copyrighted characters, and phrases on bralette and panty sets. The feature, released on Thursday, also enables users to select designs featuring living people, politicians, and celebrities, as well as popular sports team logos. However, the tool does have some limitations, as it prevents certain terms related to nudity, suicide, and self-harm.
Despite the few checks on what users can design with the AI tool, Adore Me does review individual designs to ensure they meet brand safety guidelines before a purchase can be made. While some controversial designs have slipped through, the company claims it is not responsible as they do not actually sell the offensive items. A recent incident involving the purchase of a panty set featuring hate speech has raised questions about the company’s responsibility in allowing such content to be created and purchased on its platform.
Adore Me’s generative AI engine relies on technology developed by Leonardo AI, an Australian AI art company. Leonardo’s image generator has been used to create nonconsensual pornography and has faced criticism for promoting hate speech. In response to these concerns, Leonardo spokesperson Melissa Iarocci stated that they have been developing more advanced detection mechanisms to prevent hate speech and harmful imagery.
Many retail companies have been incorporating generative AI tools into their platforms to offer personalized experiences to consumers. However, with the rise of these tools, there is a growing concern about the potential for toxicity and harmful content to be generated. Analysts emphasize the importance of implementing safeguards and monitoring systems to prevent the dissemination of inappropriate or offensive content through AI-powered tools.
The Adore Me AI tool has faced criticism for allowing the creation of designs depicting hate speech, inappropriate imagery, and promoting harmful behaviors. While the company claims to review designs for brand safety, some offensive designs have still managed to slip through the system. This has led to calls for stricter regulations and safeguards to prevent the spread of harmful content through generative AI tools.
In conclusion, the introduction of AI technology in the fashion industry has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the potential for misuse and dissemination of harmful content. Companies like Adore Me must prioritize the implementation of strict guidelines and monitoring mechanisms to ensure that their AI tools do not inadvertently facilitate the creation and promotion of hate speech, inappropriate imagery, or harmful behaviors. As the use of AI in retail continues to grow, it is essential for companies to prioritize consumer safety and well-being in the development and implementation of these technologies.
