Google Search AI can be helpful, just not with Overviews
Is Google's AI Misleading Users Online?
AI Overviews in Google Search have been criticized for disseminating misinformation shortly after their release, with examples including absurd advice like putting glue on pizza. Despite the potential of AI to streamline search results amidst SEO spam, its inability to discern truth poses significant challenges. In contrast, Google has demonstrated effective AI applications in search at Google I/O 2024, such as multi-step reasoning and planning, which offer more accurate and useful assistance.
What are some of the incorrect pieces of information that AI Overviews have reportedly provided to users?
AI Overviews, a new feature in Google Search, has reportedly provided users with incorrect and misleading information. Some examples of these inaccuracies include:
- Telling users to put glue on their pizza to prevent cheese from sliding off.
- Incorrectly stating that chicken only needs to be cooked to 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Recommending "blinker fluid" for a turn signal that doesn't make noise.
- Advising people to put out an oil fire by adding more oil.
- Claiming that there is no country in Africa that starts with the letter "K."
These examples highlight the issues with relying on AI-generated information without proper verification and the potential risks associated with it. Google has acknowledged these issues and is working on improving the feature.
What specific issues have been identified with AI Overviews in Google Search during its initial week of deployment?
During its initial week of deployment, AI Overviews in Google Search faced several issues, including providing incorrect information and displaying inaccurate responses. Some examples of these issues include:
- Telling users to put glue on their pizza.
- Incorrectly stating that chicken only needs to be cooked to 102-degrees Fahrenheit.
- Suggesting that "blinker fluid" is a real thing.
- Inaccurately advising users to put out an oil fire by adding more oil.
- Claiming that there is no country in Africa that starts with the letter "K."
These errors have raised concerns about the reliability of AI Overviews in Google Search and whether AI has a place in search results.