As the AI card controversy simmered, it highlighted not only the Sussexes’ enduring spotlight but also the strange new challenges of living in an era where artificial intelligence can create convincing-but flawed-imitations.
This AI blunder contrasted sharply with the Sussexes’ official Christmas card, released earlier this month. The genuine card, shared on behalf of their Archewell Foundation, included six heartwarming images from their year.
Netizens break down the fake
“Crap photoshop… trouser seam isn’t joined together,” one user remarked. Others chimed in, calling the image “completely fake” and “pathetic fakery.” Another pointed out AI’s ongoing challenges: “Hidden hands and feet-AI can’t do those properly yet. The black-and-white filter hides a whole lot of things like red hair and eye color.”
The faux card depicted a black-and-white “photo” of the Sussex children surrounded by festive branches. It bore the cheerful message, “Merry Christmas & Happy New Year,” signed off “from Prince Archie & Princess Lilibet.”
One snap showed Archie and Lilibetrunning toward their parents, their backs to the camera. Other photos highlighted the couple’s philanthropic work, such as Harry’s hospital visit and their joint trip to Colombia.
