AI or hypermobile ability? Nintendo’s toy announcement turns into internet debate over model’s thumb placement

Nintendo announced a new toy line for children this week, and the reveal quickly drifted off course. Shortly after the images went live, people online zoomed in on one model’s hand, leading to accusations of AI-generated imagery in the ad.

The controversy centered on a single thumb that appeared bent at an unusual angle, which is typical of AI-generated hands.

Nintendo’s toy announcement sparks AI speculation

The image in question came from a Nintendo Store X account posted on January 8th.