Pinterest launches new technology to increase body representation on social media platform

Pinterest is introducing a new technology to its suite of AI offerings, pitched as a first of its kind solution that uses shape, size, and form to identify various body types in over five billion images on the platform.

This builds on the launch of skin tone technology, with the aim of shaping how its algorithms increase representation across related feeds and search results for women’s fashion and wedding related content.

“We believe that inspiration begins with inclusion. That’s why we continue to develop inclusive product experiences that make it easier to find the best ideas that feel made for you,” says Sabrina Ellis, Pinterest’s Chief Product Officer.

“With the powerful addition of our new body type technology to our suite of inclusive AI efforts, we have improved representation of different body types on the platform by 5x across women’s fashion related searches in the US.”

“We’ve worked for over 50 years to protect the rights of fat people and to improve quality of life for people with bigger bodies. Through this work, we know that social media spaces can be especially hard for larger people,” says Tigress Osborn, Chair at NAAFA.

“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.”

“Working with Pinterest to ensure that larger bodies are shown in search results signals to users of all sizes that everybody and every body deserves to be included and inspired. We hope our work with them will inspire other companies to join the movement as well.”

Pinterest will also be flagging up several size inclusive brands on its search landing page, across Today’s Inspiration articles and in shopping spotlights, which are curated sections that highlight recommendations from influential fashion tastemakers.

Users will see shoppable content from brands like Torrid, Dia & Co, and Anthropologie.

“The presence of authentic representation on a platform, without having to add size or shape modifiers to get what you want, has never been more important to the emotional well-being of young people globally. I am immensely grateful to have been part of Pinterest's journey to shine a light on plus size individuals and show everyone else that genuine change is possible,” says Tess Holliday, founder, activist, and model.

The body type and skin tone technology are currently live in the US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, and will roll-out to additional international markets.