The intersection of artificial intelligence and pornography is reshaping the contours of a longstanding cultural and ethical debate globally. Historically, anti-pornography campaigns have been a persistent feature in Malaysia or elsewhere.

By the early 2000s, however, this issue had begun to recede from the forefront of public attention. The proliferation of smartphones made pornography not only ubiquitous but also difficult to regulate. It became politically complex—intertwined with issues of free speech and the relentless pace of technological advancement. A tacit agreement emerged: as long as adult content was consentually produced and confined behind paywalls and age verification systems, it would be largely left unregulated.

Yet, this uneasy truce is under threat as AI-generated pornography begins to infiltrate everyday life. The conversation around this technology is reigniting debates about obscenity, ethics, and safety.These discussions take on a new dimension when the content in question is generated by algorithms rather than humans. What does it mean for pornography to be “real,” and how must society respond to this new reality?

We observed significant transformations: the transition from analogue to digital media, innovations in HIV prevention, and the industry’s disruption by free streaming services and social media platforms. The adult industry has long been a pioneer in adopting new technologies, driven by human desire and fantasy. Yet, despite varied methods and media, there has always been an underlying “messy humanity.” Now, AI challenges even this.

The emergence of AI-generated pornography initially seemed like a novelty—a digital parlour trick producing awkward images featuring cheerleaders with seven fingers or eyes that lacked life. However, these crude beginnings quickly evolved into something more sophisticated and unsettling. For example, Synthetic erotica has been around for decades, but AI’s ability to produce hyper-realistic images marks a distinct shift. These images are not only technically impressive; they raise pressing questions about consent and privacy. What impact might these new forms of imagery have on us?

In September 2023, a small Spanish town of Almendralejo was confronted with these questions in a stark manner. Twenty girls returned from their summer holidays to find nude images of themselves circulating at school—images they had never taken. Boys had used an AI app to create these images from yearbook photos at minimal cost. The resulting bullying and emotional distress were profound, with some victims as young as 11 experiencing panic attacks and depression. The rapid spread of similar cases worldwide highlighted the technology’s potential for misuse. While it is not currently an issue in our country, it’s about time we, Malaysians will face the same societal issues.

The relentless advance of technology shows no signs of slowing. As students return to school in 2024, they will face AI video engines capable of producing realistic videos from simple text prompts and photographs. If still images have already caused such turmoil, the implications of video are daunting.

Moreover, AI is making pornography more personal and personalised than ever before. Users can customise their experiences with precision, selecting from a vast array of categories and scenarios that reflect individual preferences. This hyper-customisability eliminates the need for human performers altogether, posing new ethical considerations while allowing for representations that defy traditional beauty standards.

The potential for ethical pornography emerges in this context. Without sets or human actors, future studios might create content devoid of concerns over exploitation or trafficking. Some viewers may find reassurance in knowing that all elements are artificially generated.

The synergy between technology and adult entertainment is not new. Since the 1990s, advances like CD-ROM games and interactive websites have merged with adult content. Today, AI chatbots and increasingly realistic sex dolls are more accessible than ever. As AI blurs the line between virtual experiences and reality, we inch closer to the era of sex robots.

Yet, what happens when we remove humanity from sex itself? Pornography reflects the needs of its era. Our current age is marked by increasing isolation—a phenomenon exacerbated by the pandemic’s impact on social interactions. In this context, AI-generated pornography might be less about the technology itself and more about the evolving nature of human sexuality.

In the near future, we might find AI pornography appealing precisely because it is artificial. It offers an escape from reality’s complexities and imperfections—an idealised version of intimacy tailored to individual desires.

As society grapples with these developments, the fundamental question remains: what does it mean for pornography to be “real”? The answer will demand thoughtful consideration from all of us as we navigate this brave new world.