Google’s commitment to advancing AI capabilities is evident with its latest feature, enabling users to create AI-generated images through its Search Generative Experience (SGE). In a bid to provide more interactive and user-friendly search options, Google is expanding the horizons of its generative AI technology.
The Search Generative Experience is already a convenient means for users to access and obtain search results. Now, with this recent update, Google has incorporated generative AI technology within SGE to offer users the ability to generate images using prompts.
In a blog post, Google introduced this new feature and explained how it works. Users can input prompts such as “create an image of a capybara donning a chef’s hat while preparing breakfast.” SGE will then generate up to four AI-created images based on the provided prompt. When users click on an image, Google provides a description of the generated content. Additionally, users can further enhance or refine these images by adding descriptions.
Google has made it clear that this feature is designed to empower users and make it easy for them to experiment with different image ideas. As they put it, “Maybe you want to see the capybara chef making hash browns instead, or you want to add a light blue background with clouds. That’s an easy change!”
To explore these image generation capabilities, users need to opt into Search Labs. Once enabled, users might encounter the option to produce AI-generated images directly within Google Images.
One notable aspect of this announcement is Google’s response to recent concerns about AI-generated images. To address potential issues related to the authenticity and source of AI-generated images, Google has committed to incorporating metadata labeling and embedded watermarking in every AI-generated image. This labeling will clearly indicate that the image was created by AI, helping to prevent any confusion or misrepresentation.
It’s important to note that, initially, the image generation feature is accessible only in English and within the United States. Additionally, it is restricted to users aged 18 and above who have opted into the SGE experiment.
Google is not stopping at image generation; they are also working on a new feature called ‘About this image.’ This feature is designed to help individuals evaluate the context and authenticity of images they encounter. It will provide information such as the initial indexing date of the image, similar images, its first appearance, and its online presence.
Google’s Search Generative Experience continues to evolve, introducing innovative features that empower users to explore AI-generated images and gain more insights into the images they encounter online. By addressing concerns about image authenticity and providing clearer labels, Google aims to enhance the user experience while promoting transparency in the use of AI-generated content.
