- Google’s AI tool that creates images of people generated historical images which were sometimes inaccurate, it has been taken offline and will be relaunched in a few weeks.
- Google released the generative AI chatbot Bard in 2022, but Bard had previously shared inaccurate information in a promotional video.
Google is set to relaunch its AI tool that creates images of people in the next few weeks, following a brief pause after inaccuracies were identified in some historical depictions. The tool was introduced earlier this month as part of Google’s Gemini AI models but was taken offline after users flagged issues on social media. Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis confirmed the feature would be restored “very shortly in the next couple of weeks”. However, Alphabet shares dropped by 3.5% on Monday afternoon amid concerns about the reliability of generative AI technology.
Google’s AI software is still in early stage
Since OpenAI launched ChatGPT last November, Google has been racing to develop rival AI software. In early 2022, it released the generative AI chatbot Bard, which was later rebranded as Gemini and rolled out with paid subscription options. However, Bard had previously shared inaccurate information in a promotional video, resulting in a 9% drop in Google’s share price at the time.
Bob O’Donnell, chief analyst at TECHnalysis Research, said Google was still in the early stages of generative AI development. “If the glitches or inaccuracies persist, that’s when people start to worry,” he added.
Also read: Google suspends Gemini AI model’s image generation function
Diversified development of technology industry
The launch of Google’s AI tool reflects a broader trend in the technology industry towards developing more diverse and experienced media teams. As companies seek to shape public discourse, individuals like Olivia Dalton, who recently left her role as White House deputy press secretary to join Apple, are playing increasingly important roles.
As generative AI technology continues to evolve, it will be vital for companies to invest in robust testing and quality control measures to prevent inaccuracies and glitches. This will require ongoing collaboration between technology companies, researchers, and regulators to ensure that AI tools are developed and deployed responsibly.
Also read: Google launches Gemini AI model for Google Ad creation
Challenges faced by technology industry in AI field
However, the potential for inaccuracies and glitches in generative AI tools like Google’s highlights the challenges faced by companies in this space. While the technology has enormous potential, it also poses significant ethical and practical challenges, such as ensuring that historical depictions are accurate and avoiding perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
