Pinterest adds controls to let you limit the amount of ‘AI slop’ in your feed

In response to growing user dissatisfaction regarding the surge of AI-generated content, Pinterest has rolled out new features that allow users to control the amount of AI-driven imagery appearing in their feeds. On Thursday, the platform unveiled tools enabling personalization, which will help users limit the visibility of generative AI content in specific categories. The social media platform, known for helping users discover and save inspiring ideas, has faced criticism over the increasing prevalence of what some users have termed 'AI slop'. Concerns have been echoed across various media outlets questioning whether AI has negatively impacted the Pinterest experience and if the situation can be rectified. Without prompt action, Pinterest risks damaging its reputation and financial performance. The challenge of managing AI-generated material is compounded by the growing volume of such content online, making it harder for users to distinguish between traditional and AI-created imagery. According to Pinterest, generative AI now constitutes 57% of all content on the internet. Earlier this year, Pinterest took initial steps by introducing 'AI modified' labels to identify images generated by artificial intelligence. The company promised that tools for users to limit AI content would be launched soon, and they have now materialized. Accessible through the app's 'Settings' menu under 'Refine your recommendations', users can opt to reduce the visibility of AI content in categories like beauty, art, fashion, and home décor, with plans to expand these categories based on user input. Additionally, users are encouraged to provide feedback on AI-generated pins as they navigate the site. If they encounter a pin they find unappealing due to its AI origins, they can easily adjust their preferences through a simple menu option. The new features are being rolled out initially on the website and Android devices, with iOS users set to receive the updates in the coming weeks. Matt Madrigal, Pinterest's Chief Technology Officer, emphasized the platform's commitment to its community, stating, "With our new GenAI controls, we’re empowering people to personalize their Pinterest experience more than ever—striking the right balance between human creativity and AI innovation, and ensuring every feed truly reflects what inspires them most."