Canva's AI Tool Replaces 'Palestine' with 'Ukraine' in Images
Canva has apologized after its new AI-powered Magic Layers tool was caught replacing the word 'Palestine' with 'Ukraine' in images. The issue was raised on X by user Rosie (@ros_ie9), who posted that the tool transformed a poster reading 'cats for Palestine' into 'cats for Ukraine.' Other users replicated the error, with 'Palestine' consistently swapped for 'Ukraine,' though 'Gaza' remained unaffected. Canva spokesperson Louisa Green stated the company became aware of the issue, investigated, fixed it, and is adding checks to prevent recurrence. Magic Layers, announced last month, uses Canva's proprietary Canva Design Model to isolate objects in images into editable layers. Co-founder Cameron Adams said the tool aims to make AI-generated content editable. The Verge called the bug 'one heck of a blunder.' Additional reporting by Kate Garibaldi.
Key facts
- Canva's Magic Layers tool replaced 'Palestine' with 'Ukraine' in images.
- X user Rosie (@ros_ie9) first reported the bug on April 26, 2026.
- Other users replicated the error; 'Gaza' was unaffected.
- Canva apologized and said it fixed the issue.
- Magic Layers is an AI feature that transforms flat images into layered designs.
- The tool is powered by Canva's proprietary Canva Design Model.
- Canva co-founder Cameron Adams commented on the tool's purpose.
- The Verge described the bug as 'one heck of a blunder.'
Entities
Institutions
- Canva
- The Verge
- Adobe