Pinterest unveils AI body type tech to increase representation

Pinterest is launching a body type technology to increase representation and inclusivity on its platform. The AI-powered tool will be used to identify various body types, based on shape, size, and form.

The new feature, releasing today, is similar to Pinterest's skin tone search feature, which allows users to sort beauty-related pins depending on the skin color that best represents them. At first glance, the new product looks like an image search tool that can generate desired results based on specific body types.

Credit: Pinterest

The platform worked alongside creators and experts to develop the tool, including the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA), model and size advocate Tess Holliday, and Pinterest creators Natalie Craig, Kellie Brown, and Stefany Brito. Pinterest says they used these feedback and insights to increase body representation on the app in a healthy and positive way.

"Social media spaces can be especially hard for larger people," said Tigress Osborn, chair of NAAFA, in a statement. "Trolls are relentless — especially to fat women who dare to wear anything other than baggy black clothing — but Pinterest has always been safer and more welcoming than many other online spaces. We hope our work with Pinterest will inspire other companies to join the movement as well."

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In tandem with these efforts, Pinterest is launching a fund dedicated to North American creators in the plus size community. This is the thirteenth inclusion fund that the platform has created, each with the intent to grow and support the work of historically marginalized creators.

According to Pinterest's research, of all body-related searches on the app, over half (52 percent) are related to plus-size fashion. Searches like "concert looks plus size" and "plus size bridal dresses" have increased monumentally over the last year.

Sabrina Ellis, Pinterest's chief product officer, says the body type tool is the latest addition to its growing "suite of inclusive AI efforts."

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"At Pinterest, we believe that inspiration begins with inclusion," says Ellis. "That’s why we continue to develop inclusive product experiences that make it easier to find the best ideas that feel made for you."

The product is live in the U.S., U.K., Ireland, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, and will later roll out in additional international markets.