Instagram has started experimenting with a new feature where Meta’s AI generates images of users in imaginative scenarios and slips them into their feeds. The feature recently caught attention when a Reddit user shared their experience of seeing AI-generated pictures of themselves standing in a surreal “maze of mirrors” while scrolling. These images weren’t part of an ad but appeared as personalized content directly on their timeline.
The user explained that they had previously uploaded selfies to Meta’s AI-powered “Imagine” tool, a feature that lets people create AI-enhanced versions of their photos. However, they were surprised to see the tool take it further, automatically generating scenarios like the reflective maze and placing them on their feed with a playful caption about “reflecting on life.”
From skepticism to confirmation
When the Reddit post first surfaced, it was met with disbelief. Comments ranged from outright dismissal to conspiracy theories, with people calling it fake or accusing the poster of making it up. The user had to repeatedly clarify the images’ authenticity, even sharing screenshots as proof.
Meta eventually stepped in to confirm that this was not a hoax. According to the company, the AI-generated images are not advertisements but part of a September-announced feature designed to create personalized content based on user interests or trends. Meta’s AI can now generate visual interpretations of users’ selfies, imagining them in roles like astronauts or video game characters.
How the “Imagine Yourself” feature works
The “Imagine Yourself” tool allows users to upload multiple selfies, which Meta’s AI uses to create unique versions in creative settings. The tool’s prompts can inspire anything from mundane scenarios to extraordinary roles, such as being placed in outer space. Once activated, the AI sometimes generates content automatically, inserting these whimsical images into users’ feeds without prior prompts.
Meta clarified that this is part of its broader plan to integrate more AI-generated content into Facebook and Instagram feeds. The company explained that users can engage with these images by swiping to explore other ideas or tapping prompts to tweak the generated content further.
The bigger picture: AI everywhere
This incident is just one example of how AI is becoming more prominent in social media. Over the same weekend, Meta’s AI-generated profiles also went viral but were later removed from the platform. Meta seems intent on embedding AI-driven content deeper into its apps, even using AI-generated versions of users themselves to fill feeds with tailored, playful visuals.
While some find this new approach entertaining, others are uneasy about the increasing use of AI in personal content due to concerns about privacy and consent. Meta, however, appears confident that its users are ready for more AI in their digital lives. Whether they are remains to be seen.