Google is by far the most dominant technology among search engines, and its new AI-based search function was expected to reinforce this dominance. However, this function has faced sharp criticism for providing false and inaccurate answers, as reported by BBC.
You may have noticed that Google recently decided to experiment with artificial intelligence through the “AI Overviews” tool, designed to give users a brief summary of search results. However, it seems this tool is far from perfect. It has been discovered that the AI sometimes provides bizarre suggestions, such as advising users to stick cheese on pizza with non-toxic glue or to eat a stone daily to replenish essential minerals. Additionally, the tool has spread other inaccuracies, such as incorrectly stating that former US President Barack Obama is a Muslim, according to News18.
Although Google claims these are isolated incidents, it appears that some AI responses were sourced from Reddit or satirical sites like The Onion.
This incident is not the first time Google products have faced criticism. The company has previously encountered issues with similar AI tools, such as the Gemini chatbot, which was criticized for controversial responses and temporarily suspended.
Instances of AI “hallucinations,” where tools provide inaccurate information, highlight the ongoing need to improve and train these systems.
Google Plans to Monetize Search
Google’s search engine is currently used by over a billion people worldwide. BBC highlighted findings from the Financial Times, which revealed that Google is exploring options to include certain premium AI search features for subscribers of its premium service.
This would mark the first time the tech giant charges for its core functionality. However, non-subscribers to the premium AI package Gemini need not worry, as the classic Google search engine would remain free and ad-supported.
Interestingly, even premium AI search subscribers would not be free from advertisements. This isn’t surprising, considering Google reported $175 billion in revenue from search and related ads last year. In a statement to BBC, Google said, “We are not working on an ad-free search and have no plans to do so.”
