Judge denies xAI request to block Minnesota ban on nudify apps

A federal judge has denied xAI's request to temporarily block a Minnesota law banning so-called "nudify" applications, allowing the legislation to take effect as scheduled. The ruling was issued by U.S. District Judge Donovan Frank, who declined to grant xAI's request for a temporary restraining order ahead of the law's August 1 implementation. Judge Frank noted that the company filed its motion for a temporary restraining order on July 29, nearly three months after the legislation had been signed into law and just three days before it was set to take effect. The court observed that the delay weakened the argument that immediate action was necessary to prevent irreparable harm. The Minnesota law targets applications commonly known as "nudify" apps, which use artificial intelligence to digitally alter photographs by removing clothing or creating realistic nude images of individuals without their consent. Lawmakers introduced the measure amid growing concerns over the misuse of AI-generated imagery for harassment, cyberbullying, blackmail, and other forms of online abuse. xAI challenged the legislation, arguing that it raises significant constitutional and legal questions. Although the company's detailed claims will be considered as the lawsuit proceeds, its immediate objective was to prevent enforcement of the law while the courts reviewed its arguments. By denying the temporary restraining order, the judge allowed the statute to take effect while litigation continues. Importantly, the ruling does not determine whether the Minnesota law is ultimately constitutional or legally valid. Instead, it addresses only the company's request for emergency relief before the case is fully heard. The broader legal challenge remains active, meaning the court could later examine the legislation in greater detail before issuing a final decision.