The move comes after significant backlash and scrutiny over the potential misuse of the AI technology. Grok, launched in 2023, is designed to generate various types of content, including image manipulation. Concerns arose when users discovered the AI could be prompted to create deepfakes of real people in compromising situations.

The UK government responded to the announcement, calling it "vindication" for its calls for X to control Grok. Regulator Ofcom echoed this sentiment, describing the change as a "welcome development," but emphasized that its investigation into whether the platform violated UK laws "remains ongoing." Ofcom stated, "We are working round the clock to progress this and get answers into what went wrong and what's being done to fix it."

Technology Secretary Liz Kendall also welcomed the change but added that she would "expect the facts to be fully and robustly established by Ofcom's ongoing investigation."

The specific technological measures implemented by X to prevent the misuse of Grok were not detailed in the announcement. However, the company indicated that the restrictions would apply in jurisdictions where the creation and distribution of such deepfakes are illegal. This suggests a geo-fencing approach, where the AI's capabilities are limited based on the user's location.

Campaigners and victims have expressed that the change is overdue, arguing that the harm caused by the technology has already been done. Journalist and campaigner Jess Davies, who was impacted by the technology, has been vocal about the need for stronger regulations and preventative measures.

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of regulating AI technologies and preventing their misuse. While X's decision to restrict Grok's capabilities is a step in the right direction, it also raises questions about the platform's initial oversight and the potential for similar issues to arise with other AI tools. The industry impact of this decision could lead to increased scrutiny of AI-powered platforms and a greater emphasis on responsible AI development and deployment.