Recently, Google has launched a new feature in the United States called AI Overview, which uses artificial intelligence to provide users with responses to searches by compiling information from multiple sources and synthesizing it into a single answer. This feature, powered by Gemini, aims to replace Google’s traditional list of links with text-based answers generated based on the information found on those sites. While this may be convenient for users who want all their processed information in one place, it raises concerns among content creators who may see fewer visits to their sites as a result.
Gemini, like other generative artificial intelligences such as ChatGPT, is not always accurate when it recites information. It relies solely on the reputation of the sources it gathers data from. In some cases, this has led to controversial responses generated by AI Overview, such as the suggestion of using plasticola in a homemade pizza recipe, which originated from an old Reddit post. This has sparked discussion on social media about other incorrect responses generated by Gemini and emphasized the importance of reliable information when using AI like this.
Google acknowledges that these situations may occur with less popular searches where information sources are scarce. However, ensuring the credibility of the responses generated by AI Overview remains challenging despite these concerns. The experimental nature of AI Overview allows Google to gather feedback and improve the accuracy of generated responses over time. Nonetheless, the potential impact on user trust and content creators highlights the importance of maintaining reliable information in search results.
In conclusion, while AI Overview may be convenient for users who want all their processed information in one place, it raises concerns about content creators seeing fewer visits to their sites as a result. The potential impact on user trust also highlights the importance of maintaining reliable information in search results. Despite these challenges and concerns, Google continues to experiment with new features that use artificial intelligence to provide users with more efficient ways to access information online.
