Levi's says its AI-generated diverse models that caused huge backlash are not a substitute for action on diversity

• Levi's responded to backlash over its decision to use new AI-generated diverse models.
• The denimwear label said it did not regard AI models as a substitute for real action.
• Levi's was criticized for using AI as a replacement for hiring and paying diverse models.

Levi's said its decision to use AI-generated diverse models was not a "means to advance diversity" or substitute for real action following an outcry.

The denimwear brand came under scrutiny this week after it announced a partnership with Lalaland.ai to use AI-generated models with more diverse skin tones and body types. Lalaland.ai is a Black-owned AI company set up in 2019.