Google’s new “AI Summary” feature, which utilizes artificial intelligence to provide aggregated results above some search results, has received criticism for providing inaccurate and potentially harmful information. The feature has replaced organic search results and has sparked controversy due to the questionable answers it has been generating.
One example cited was a tip suggesting mixing glue with cheese to prevent it from sliding off a pizza, which raised concerns about the safety and accuracy of the information being provided. Additionally, users reported receiving a dangerous mustard gas recipe in response to a query about disinfecting a washing machine.
Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the feature’s tendency to plagiarize content from other sources. Users have noted instances where Google’s overview feature has copied language from recipe websites without permission, indicating a lack of originality in the generated results.
Google claims that the AI Overview feature benefits smaller websites by increasing their visibility in search results and driving more traffic to their pages. However, critics argue that the reliance on AI-generated content could hinder access to the original sources of information, ultimately undermining the publications on which the feature is based.
The News Media Alliance has called for greater action against AI models that train on content without permission, emphasizing the need to protect publishers’ rights and ensure fair compensation for the use of their content. Google includes a disclaimer stating that “Generative AI is experimental” below the AI-generated results, acknowledging the challenges posed by the increasing reliance on computer-generated content.
As alternatives to Google’s search engine are being sought, users are encouraged to consider options that prioritize unbiased search results and prioritize accuracy in information retrieval.
In summary, Google’s new “AI Overview” feature has come under scrutiny for providing inaccurate and potentially harmful information. Critics have raised concerns about the feature’s plagiarism of content and its impact on original sources of information. The News Media Alliance has called for greater protection of publishers’ rights in the face of increasing reliance on AI-generated content. Users are advised to consider alternative search engines that prioritize unbiased and accurate information retrieval.
Article Source
https://www.salon.com/2024/05/23/googles-ai-overview-seems-to-be-spewing-inaccurate-answers/
