Google’s Gemini AI model, designed to generate images of people, is temporarily halting its operations due to criticism over producing historically inaccurate depictions. This decision comes amidst Google’s competitive efforts against rivals like OpenAI and Microsoft in the AI space.
Gemini, introduced earlier this month, faced backlash on social media for generating images that inaccurately portrayed historical scenes, such as showing U.S. Founding Fathers as women or Nazi soldiers as people of color. Google acknowledged these inaccuracies and announced the pause to address the issues.
“We’re already working to address recent issues with Gemini’s image generation feature,” stated Google. “While we do this, we’re going to pause the image generation of people and will re-release an improved version soon.” This pause reflects Google’s commitment to enhancing the accuracy and reliability of its AI tools.
We're already working to address recent issues with Gemini's image generation feature. While we do this, we're going to pause the image generation of people and will re-release an improved version soon. https://t.co/SLxYPGoqOZ
— Google Communications (@Google_Comms) February 22, 2024
Critics highlighted the limitations of AI models like Gemini, noting their potential lack of intelligence needed to accurately interpret historical or cultural nuances. Gary Marcus, an AI entrepreneur and professor, described the situation as a result of “lousy software,” emphasizing the need for continued improvement in AI technology.
Google's Gemini AI Faces Backlash: Why It's Halted Image Production! Click To TweetSocial media users heavily criticized Gemini, labeling it as “absurdly woke” and “unusable,” due to the bizarrely revisionist pictures it generated in response to requests for representative images.
Examples included an AI-generated image depicting a black man resembling George Washington, wearing a white powdered wig and Continental Army uniform, and showing a Southeast Asian woman dressed in papal attire, despite the historical fact that all 266 popes throughout history have been white men.
Google’s decision to pause the image generation of people in Gemini reflects a broader challenge in AI development. While AI has transformative potential, including image generation, it also underscores the need for careful consideration of historical and cultural contexts. As AI evolves, developers must prioritize accuracy and inclusivity to avoid perpetuating biases and inaccuracies.
In conclusion, Google’s decision to pause the image generation feature of Gemini underscores the complexities and challenges of developing AI technologies. While AI holds immense promise, it requires careful handling to ensure it accurately represents diverse perspectives and historical contexts. As Google works to enhance Gemini, it emphasizes the importance of responsible AI development and ongoing efforts to mitigate bias in AI systems.
Also read: Gemini 1.5: A Leap Forward in AI Innovation
