Google plans to overhaul Gemini AI after image bias controversy

Google announced it will overhaul its Gemini AI system following a backlash over biased image generations that sparked widespread controversy.

It comes as the parent company, Alphabet, saw a $90 billion drop in its stock market value.

Sundar Pichai, Google's chief executive, acknowledged that the AI tool's responses were "completely unacceptable."

The controversy stemmed from Gemini's depiction of historical figures and scenarios, which drew criticism for not accurately representing diversity and history. In response, Google temporarily disabled the image-generating capabilities of Gemini to address the issues.

Experts cited in media reports suggested that resolving such biases is not straightforward, and pointed to the nuanced nature of historical and cultural representation.

Some critics meanwhile argue that Google's handling of the Gemini rollout could affect its reputation and trust.

Media reports, and the controversy itself, highlight potential biases in AI development, where interventions and attempts to correct historical inaccuracies or underrepresentation can go too far, leading to newly injected forms of bias.

It also underscores the difficulties in programming AI without incorporating societal and historical biases.

The significant market value drop for Alphabet suggests investor concerns over Google's ability to manage and lead in the AI domain, which further highlights the financial risks related to AI controversies.