Japan said it has opened an investigation into xAI’s AI chatbot Grok, becoming the latest country to scrutinize the service over concerns related to inappropriate and sexualized image generation. The Cabinet Office has asked X Corp to implement immediate improvements, according to Economic Security Minister Kimi Onoda, who also oversees Japan’s AI strategy.
Onoda said the government is prepared to examine all available options, including legal measures, if the situation does not improve. She added that authorities have not yet received a response from X following the request.
xAI said this week it introduced changes to limit Grok’s image editing capabilities, including blocking edits involving real people in revealing clothing such as swimwear. The company also said it has restricted image generation in certain locations where such content is illegal, without specifying the jurisdictions.
Japan’s move follows similar actions by other governments. Britain and Canada are conducting their own probes, while Malaysia and Indonesia have temporarily blocked Grok. Regulators globally are increasing pressure on AI providers as concerns grow over safeguards, content moderation, and the risks posed by generative image tools.
