AI-generated social media trends see massive surge in popularity

Generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Gemini are driving new viral trends on social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. One major trend involves users transforming current photos into ultra-realistic images featuring 1980s aesthetics, including voluminous hairstyles, high-waisted jeans, and vintage film grain lighting. Google reports that searches for this 1980s visual style have increased by 5,000% in a single week.

A second trend involves users uploading childhood photos to AI tools to generate an image of what they might look like as adults, often comparing the AI-generated result to their actual current appearance.

Experts note that while these trends are popular, users should be cautious regarding data privacy. Submitting personal photos to AI systems means sharing information that may be used for training and improving the tools, making it important to review platform terms of use.