Midjourney aims to enable anyone online to edit images using AI

Midjourney is set to release an enhanced web tool allowing users to edit uploaded images with its generative AI.

According to CEO David Holtz, the tool, which will launch “early next week,” will also enable users to retexture objects in images, altering colors and details based on captions.

AI-assisted image editing has recently sparked debate. Companies like Meta have struggled with how to label AI-edited images versus those generated entirely by AI, while Google has introduced AI tools that provide no visual cues for AI modifications.

Last year, Midjourney adopted the IPTC’s Digital Source Type property, which adds metadata to indicate images are AI-generated. However, it has not yet adopted C2PA, a technology that tracks the full provenance of images, including tools used in their creation.

Holtz stated in Midjourney’s Discord server that the upgraded tool will initially be available to a limited group within the community, with increased human oversight and advanced AI moderators to prevent misuse.

“We’re still figuring out how to manage the rollout of this feature,” Holtz said, noting that Midjourney is gathering feedback via a poll to decide who will get early access.

Without proper safeguards, these editing tools could lead to widespread copyright violations or the creation of misleading deepfakes.

Deepfakes are rapidly increasing on social media, making it increasingly difficult to separate truth from disinformation. Recently, fake AI-generated images depicting destruction and human suffering went viral following Hurricane Helene.

Data from deepfake detection firm Clarity shows a 900% increase in deepfakes created and shared this year compared to the same period last year, raising significant concerns. A YouGov poll revealed that 85% of Americans are worried about the spread of misleading deepfakes online.

While there is no federal law criminalizing deepfakes in the U.S., over 10 states have passed laws against AI-assisted impersonation. California’s stalled legislation would be the first to allow judges to order the removal of deepfakes and impose fines on those responsible.

Midjourney has faced criticism for its AI deployment, including a lawsuit alleging the use of copyrighted content to train its models. However, in recent months, the platform has introduced measures to curb the spread of deepfakes, such as filters targeting political figures ahead of the U.S. presidential election.