In recent weeks, Google AI Overview has been available in the United States as part of an experiment that replaced the Search Generative Experience (SGE). This feature uses AI to provide quick answers and summaries for users. However, some users have reported receiving inconsistent responses, such as advice to “eat at least one small stone a day” from Geology experts at the University of Berkeley. Google spokesperson acknowledged that while the technology generally provides high-quality information, some errors may occur due to uncommon queries.
In response to user complaints, Google has taken quick action to address the issue. Vice president and head of Google Search, Liz Reid, explained how AI overviews work and the possible reasons for the errors. Users have reported being more satisfied with their search results and are asking longer and more complex questions, leading to higher quality clicks to web pages. Unlike chatbots and other LLM products, AI overviews provide relevant links for further investigation.
Google has emphasized the importance of accuracy in its results and stated that the technology does not generate hallucinations or invent information. While some overviews may be strange or inaccurate, Google has been working on updates to improve the accuracy of its responses and remove misleading content that does not comply with its policies. It has implemented better detection mechanisms for meaningless queries and limitations on satirical and user-generated content in the responses.
Additionally, Google has added AI activation restrictions for queries where overviews are not helpful and reinforced security barriers on topics such as news and health. The company’s goal is to provide accurate and factual information in its AI summaries, especially on important news topics. By addressing these issues and enhancing its systems, Google aims to improve the overall experience of AI overviews for its users.
Overall, Google’s AI Overview is a valuable feature that provides quick answers with summaries generated by AI. While some errors may occur due to uncommon queries or misleading content, Google is taking swift action to address these issues and improve accuracy in its results. With continued updates and improvements, this feature will undoubtedly enhance user experience on Gemini’s platform.
