A controversy has erupted on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, over claims that podcaster Tim Pool used artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance images of his skateboarding skills.
The allegations stem from a photo posted on Instagram by “The Boonies HQ” skateboarding channel, showing Pool performing an ollie over a trash can. A left-wing X user, “lucile desmoulins,” accused Pool of using AI to manipulate the image, citing alleged glitches in Pool’s hand and skateboard wheels as evidence.
Social media reaction
The accusation quickly gained traction on X, with numerous users echoing the claims and pointing out perceived inconsistencies in the image. Comments ranged from skepticism to outright dismissal of Pool’s skateboarding abilities.
On Instagram, where the original photo was posted on August 22, users flooded the comments section with similar accusations:
- “Not even Photoshop, just straight up fake computer picture lmfao,” one user claimed.
- Another asked, “why you got 6 fingers Timmy?”
Some commenters also referenced recent news about Pool allegedly receiving substantial monthly payments from the Russian government, using this information to further question the authenticity of the skateboarding image.
Analyzing the claims
Despite the widespread speculation, there is currently no strong evidence to support the AI manipulation claims. Experts suggest that the poor image quality, potentially a still from a video, could explain many of the perceived inconsistencies. Factors such as motion blur and image compression from social media sharing could account for the alleged “glitches.”
Pool’s skateboarding background
It’s important to note that Tim Pool has a well-documented history with skateboarding:
- He has frequently shared pictures and videos of himself skateboarding on social media.
- Pool was involved in a controversy earlier this year when he purchased a plot of land in West Virginia that local skaters had been using, following a dispute over a local skating competition.
Pool’s response
In a direct message to the Daily Dot, Pool addressed the conspiracy theory and provided video evidence of himself performing the ollie over the trash can in question. He stated, “Dude, I ollied over this garbage can like 500 times. This is the stupidest thing ever.”
As the debate continues, this incident highlights the growing concern over AI-generated content and the challenges of distinguishing between authentic and manipulated media in the digital age.
EN 
ES 
FR 
DE 
IT 
HE