Google removes AI image generation tool from Google Earth within a day over misuse concerns

Google has removed a newly launched AI-powered image generation tool from Google Earth less than 24 hours after its release following concerns about misinformation and potential misuse.

The feature, called "Create Image", was introduced on the web version of Google Earth as part of the company's efforts to integrate artificial intelligence into its mapping platform. Powered by Google's Nano Banana 2 image generation model, it allowed users to create realistic visual overlays for locations on Google Earth using text prompts.

Soon after its launch, the tool drew criticism from open-source intelligence researchers, journalists and disinformation experts, who warned that it could be used to create convincing but false satellite imagery.

Researchers demonstrated how the feature could generate misleading images involving sensitive locations and events, raising concerns about the credibility of satellite imagery during conflicts, emergencies and other major events.

Google said it had observed users sharing screenshots of AI-generated images that appeared to violate its policies.

"We know that people uniquely trust Google Earth for a reliable view of the world. We've seen geospatial professionals using this feature for a range of useful purposes. However, we've also seen people sharing screenshots of generated imagery that appear to violate our policies. So we're rolling back this feature in Google Earth while we work on implementing stronger guardrails," the company said in a post on X.

Google said all AI-generated images included an invisible SynthID digital watermark. It added that the generated images did not appear in the main Google Earth experience for other users and were marked as AI-generated.