Google’s new artificial intelligence (AI) search feature is under fire for providing bizarre and inaccurate answers to users’ queries. The experimental “AI Overviews” tool has been criticized for suggesting using “non-toxic glue” to make cheese stick to pizza better and recommending that humans eat one rock per day, based on geologists’ advice.
These outlandish responses have sparked outrage on social media, with many users mocking Google for the absurd suggestions. However, Google has defended the feature, calling the examples “isolated” and not representative of most users’ experiences. The tech giant stated that the vast majority of AI overviews provide high-quality information with links to further explore the topic on the web.
Despite Google’s reassurances, this is not the first time the company has faced backlash over its AI-powered products. Earlier this year, Google had to pause its chatbot Gemini due to criticism of its “woke” responses. Similarly, its predecessor, Bard, also encountered difficulties.
The AI overviews feature was initially trialed with a small number of logged-in UK users in April before being rolled out to all US users in mid-May. The tool aims to provide a summary of search results using AI, streamlining the search process for users. While Google warns that the feature is experimental, it is likely to be widely used and trusted given Google’s dominance in the search engine market.
Google’s search engine accounts for over 90% of the global market share, according to web traffic tracker Statcounter. However, Google is not the only tech company facing criticism for integrating AI tools into consumer products. Microsoft is under investigation by the UK’s data watchdog for a feature in its AI-focused PCs that takes continuous screenshots of users’ online activity. Additionally, OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, faced backlash from actress Scarlett Johansson for using a voice similar to hers without her permission.
As tech companies continue to push the boundaries of AI technology, they must navigate the fine line between innovation and accuracy to maintain user trust and avoid controversy.
