Google is bringing back its image generation feature for its AI chatbot, Gemini Advanced. This decision comes after a period of significant controversy and public criticism surrounding the tool’s previous iteration.
Google is reintroducing the ability for Gemini Advanced to generate images of people, using an upgraded version of its image generation model, Imagen 3. This revamped feature will first be available to users of the English-language version of the chatbot. The update aims to address issues that led to the feature being disabled earlier this year.
The image generation feature was initially disabled in February following backlash over the AI’s output. Users criticized the tool for generating images depicting people in unrealistic or sensitive contexts, including controversial and potentially offensive scenarios. Many, including Elon Musk, voiced concerns, adding to the public scrutiny Google faced.
In response to the criticism, Google CEO Sundar Pichai acknowledged the shortcomings of the tool and the company’s need for improvement. The company admitted that the feature had significant flaws and that it “got it wrong” in its initial deployment.
The reintroduced image generation tool comes with new safeguards designed to prevent previous issues. These include restrictions on creating photorealistic images of identifiable individuals, minors, or scenes of excessive violence. These measures aim to address past concerns and provide a more responsible and controlled user experience.
Google plans a gradual rollout of the updated tool, with a focus on incorporating user feedback to refine and enhance its capabilities. This approach reflects the company’s commitment to learning from past mistakes and improving its technology in response to user needs.
The re-release of this feature comes at a time of fluctuating investor confidence in AI technologies. Market volatility and the entrance of new competitors, such as Apple, have added pressure on tech giants to deliver reliable and effective AI solutions. Google’s previous AI rollout, Bard, also faced criticism for accuracy issues, compounding concerns about the company’s approach to AI development.
Google’s challenges with its AI tools underscore the complexities and risks associated with developing cutting-edge technology. As the company navigates these issues, it must advance its AI capabilities while addressing the criticisms and expectations of a highly scrutinizing public and competitive market.
