Google disables AI tool for Google Earth after 24 hours
Google switched off its AI image generation tool within Google Earth just 24 hours after a flood of user-generated content reportedly breached the company’s established guidelines.
Using the AI model Nano Banana 2, users were able to generate lifelike images based on real satellite, 3D and aerial photo data by entering specific text prompts for random coordinates worldwide. However, the tool ran into fierce reactions because of risks related to disinformation. It was possible to fabricate unrealistic events overlaid on real images of famous landmarks and monuments.
In a statement on X, Google noted that although geospatial experts had used the tool effectively, some users shared images that violated company policy. For that reason, the company is suspending the feature in order to develop more robust safety protocols.
Although Google did not go into detail about the specific nature of the violations, it clarified that these images had been watermarked as artificial and had not been integrated into the main Google Earth interface.
This incident reflects a broader trend among major tech companies that are struggling to find a balance between AI integration and safety. Many companies have been forced to limit or remove features in order to tackle privacy issues and the spread of false information.
For instance, Meta recently scrapped Muse Image, a tool that generated images based on public Instagram data, after heavy criticism and privacy objections, including from a Hollywood union.
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