TikTok tests AI remix feature that turns users into memes

TikTok is quietly testing a new AI feature that lets users create digital memes from other people’s content – and it’s turned on by default. The “Remixes” tool allows viewers to generate AI-powered images, text-based memes, and other content using public TikTok posts without explicit creator consent.

The feature first appeared in creators’ account settings earlier this week, with many users discovering it only after fellow TikTokers reported finding the buried setting. The lack of notification has raised serious questions about user privacy and consent, particularly as the tool automatically opts users in rather than requiring them to actively enable it.

TikTok confirmed to CNET that Remixes is real but still “experimental,” available only to select creators during the testing phase. The company says the feature could change significantly before a wider rollout and claims user content won’t be used to train its AI systems under new guidelines from its U.S.-based owners. However, users who have encountered the feature remain skeptical, citing concerns about potential impersonation and content theft.

This AI push fits into TikTok’s broader strategy to compete in the generative AI space. The platform previously launched Tako, an AI assistant that now appears prominently in users’ For You pages and search functions. TikTok also debuted “AI Self,” which creates AI replicas of users for others’ content – similar to OpenAI’s controversial Cameos feature that was later rebranded.

The timing reflects the broader pressure on tech companies to monetize their AI investments quickly. Users across platforms have complained about feeling overwhelmed by new AI features appearing without warning, often with privacy implications they didn’t anticipate.

The remix feature raises particular concerns because it essentially allows anyone to create AI-generated content using someone else’s likeness or posts. While TikTok insists this is just an experiment, the default opt-in approach suggests the company is prioritizing data collection and engagement over user choice.

Unfortunately, there’s no universal way to disable remixes across all your content. Users must manually opt out of each individual post, a time-consuming process that has drawn criticism from creators. Here’s how to protect your content:

• Go to your TikTok profile
• Click on any TikTok post or video
• Tap the three dots in the bottom right corner
• Navigate to the bottom row of icons and scroll right
• Select “Privacy Settings”
• Toggle off “Allow AI to remix content”

TikTok hasn’t confirmed whether a blanket opt-out option will be available when the feature launches more widely. For now, users concerned about their content being turned into AI memes will need to go through this process for each post they want to protect.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between platform innovation and user consent. As AI capabilities expand, the question of who controls how our digital presence gets repurposed becomes increasingly important – and TikTok’s default opt-in approach suggests that battle is far from over.