Instagram has launched a feature allowing users to replace their profile photos with AI-enhanced or fully AI-generated avatars, sparking debate about authenticity and identity on social media.

The Feature

Users can upload a selfie and choose from dozens of AI styles — from subtle enhancement to completely stylized avatars. Within a week, 50 million users have changed their profile photos to AI versions.

Backlash

Critics argue the feature further erodes authenticity on social media and could enable catfishing. Mental health advocates worry about the message that real faces need AI improvement.