Grammarly Navigates Backlash Over AI ‘Expert Review’ Feature
Grammarly has announced changes to its AI-driven ‘Expert Review’ feature following criticism from authors, journalists, and experts regarding the ethical implications of how its technology operates. Rather than fully disabling the tool, Grammarly is implementing an opt-out process for individuals cited in AI-generated suggestions.
Introduced in August 2025, the ‘Expert Review’ functionality has drawn severe scrutiny for allegedly misleading users by attributing advice to real individuals, including deceased professionals, without their consent. Critics claim the feature misrepresents these experts, presenting users with fabricated insights purportedly from renowned authors and journalists across several well-known media outlets. The controversy has raised significant concerns surrounding privacy rights, ethical practices, and potential defamation, resulting in widespread public outcry.
Backlash and Industry Response
Historian C.E. Aubin critiqued the feature, stating it is “not expert reviews, because there are no ‘experts’ involved,” while tech news outlet Platformer characterized it as a mechanism that transforms users into “AI editors against [their] will.” Critics emphasize that this functionality commodifies the identity of real experts to monetize suggestions, pointing to a dangerous precedent in ethical AI development.
Despite intense backlash, Grammarly has opted to retain the ‘Expert Review’ service but with modifications. The company is allowing named experts to remove their names from the AI suggestions by contacting Grammarly’s parent company, Superhuman. This step was articulated as part of their commitment to transparency and ethical compliance. A spokesperson clarified that the references in the tool are intended for “informational purposes only” and do not imply endorsement or partnership with the individuals mentioned.
Coverage from various media sources, including TechCrunch and eWeek, confirms that Grammarly is not shuttering the ‘Expert Review’ feature outright but adapting its operational framework. As reported, the option for experts to opt out comes amid discussions around the broader ethical landscape of AI implementation in professional tools and content generation.
Market and Future Implications
The ongoing controversies surrounding the use of AI in providing expert opinions highlight a pivotal moment for technology companies developing similar tools. Developers and users alike are watching closely as the situation unfolds, with various stakeholders weighing the balance between innovation and ethical practices.
Industry analysts are urging for stricter guidelines on AI technologies, particularly regarding consent and the utilization of personal identities. This case may prompt other companies offering AI-driven services to re-evaluate their practices or face similar backlash from professional communities. As more businesses integrate AI features, the prioritization of ethical standards remains crucial not only for maintaining user trust but also for safeguarding the integrity of expert contributions.
