San Francisco, CA – Google’s latest AI feature for search results has caused a stir among users in the US, with reports of bizarre and seemingly inappropriate responses. The AI overviews feature, which was announced at Google’s I/O developer conference, is intended to provide users with a summary of information at the top of search results.
However, as the feature rolled out to more users this week, some internet users reported receiving troubling responses. Examples include recommendations to use glue as a pizza ingredient, suggesting jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge as an option for feeling depressed, and even misinformation linking former President Barack Obama to being Muslim.
Google has stated that these examples are not reflective of common queries and that the vast majority of AI overviews provide high-quality information with links for further exploration. The company emphasized that extensive testing was done before launching the feature to ensure its quality.
Despite Google’s reassurances, concerns have been raised by publishers about the impact of AI overviews on website traffic. With the overview feature potentially reducing the need for users to click through to external links, publishers worry about a decrease in traffic and advertising revenue.
Google has defended the feature, stating that the links included in AI overviews actually receive more clicks than traditional search results. The company aims to continue supporting publishers and creators by focusing on sending valuable traffic their way.
As Google works to address the issues with the AI overviews feature, users and industry experts will be watching closely to see how the technology evolves and whether it can provide accurate and reliable information without causing harm or confusion to users.