X Now Permits AI-Generated Adult Content

Social media network X (formerly known as Twitter) announced a significant update to its content policies. The platform now formally permits the sharing of consensually-produced AI-generated NSFW (Not Safe For Work) content, provided it is clearly labelled. This change marks a notable shift in X's approach to adult content, aligning with previous experiments under Elon Musk’s leadership. In this blog, we delve into the implications of this policy update and its potential impact on users and the broader social media landscape.

The Policy Update

X's updated 'adult content' policy emphasizes the importance of consensually-produced material, whether visual or written. According to the new guidelines, users are allowed to create, distribute, and consume sexual-themed content as long as it adheres to the principles of consent and is properly labelled to restrict access to minors.

Key Points of the Policy

• Consensual Production: The content must be consensually produced and shared.

• Clear Labelling: AI-generated adult content must be clearly marked as sensitive media.

• User Autonomy: The policy highlights the autonomy of adults to engage with and create content reflecting their beliefs, desires, and experiences, including sexuality.

• Protection for Minors: The platform ensures that such content is restricted from users under 18 or those who have not provided their birth dates.

• Prohibition of Violent Content: While the policy allows adult content, it maintains a strict stance against excessively gory content, depictions of sexual violence, and content inciting or glorifying violence.

Implications of the Update

Enhanced Artistic Expression

X's new policy recognizes sexual expression as a legitimate form of artistic expression. This update could encourage more creators to explore and share their work, fostering a more diverse and inclusive platform for artistic and personal expression.

Potential Revenue Streams

Although X has never outright banned pornography, the formal acceptance of AI-generated adult content could pave the way for developing services centered around adult content. This move might position X as a competitor to platforms like OnlyFans, potentially enhancing its revenue streams and furthering Elon Musk’s vision of transforming X into an "everything app," akin to China’s WeChat.

User Experience and Safety

By allowing users to mark their posts as sensitive, X aims to balance freedom of expression with user safety. This feature ensures that adult content is only accessible to those who wish to see it, protecting minors and users who prefer not to encounter such material.

Addressing Current Events

X’s decision to allow graphic content is also aimed at enabling users to participate in discussions about current events. The ability to share relevant images and videos, even if they contain adult content, can contribute to more comprehensive and informed conversations on the platform.

The Bigger Picture

A 2022 Reuters report, citing internal company documents, revealed that approximately 13% of posts on X contained adult content. With the proliferation of porn bots on the platform, this percentage has likely increased. By updating its policies, X is not only acknowledging the existing presence of adult content but also setting clear guidelines to manage it responsibly.

Conclusion

X's decision to permit AI-generated adult content marks a significant development in the platform's evolution. By emphasizing consensual production, clear labelling, and user autonomy, X is striving to balance artistic expression with user safety. As the platform continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these changes impact user engagement and the broader social media landscape.