Google is launching new protocols for its generative AI tools to protect the integrity of the upcoming U.S. presidential election. These updated measures expand beyond the previously declared restrictions on election-related queries for its Gemini AI model, affecting additional AI functionalities.
AI-Driven Features Under Scrutiny
Various AI services, such as Search AI Overviews, YouTube's AI-generated Live Chat summaries, the new Gemini Gems, and Gemini's image generation capabilities, will now be subject to these enhanced restrictions. Google's goal is to prevent the dissemination of false information through these AI tools, ensuring they do not engage in election-related content. Laurie Richardson, Google's vice president of trust and safety, in a blog post emphasized the importance of delivering accurate information, especially during elections.
The 2020 presidential election saw a significant rise in false information, an issue that could be exacerbated by the evolution of generative AI ahead of the 2024 election. Google is aware of the current limitations of generative AI and seeks to limit its involvement in political content to reduce misinformation risks.
Tools for Voter Information
Beyond these AI restrictions, Google Search will provide users with tools to locate voter registration details. YouTube will roll out features to help users find trustworthy information about candidates and political parties, along with reminders for voting as the election approaches. Additionally, Google Play has started using a new badge to identify official government agency apps, aiming to direct users to dependable sources for election-related information.
YouTube plans to introduce information panels above search results for certain federal election candidates. The panels will offer basic details like political affiliation and provide a link to Google Search for additional information. They might also include links to the candidate's official website or other relevant sources.
Partnership for Voter Registration Data
Through a collaboration with Democracy Works, a nonpartisan nonprofit group, Google will provide users with voter registration data. The partnership is designed to ensure that voters can easily access the information they need.
Google Play Store will now feature a badge that signifies an app is from an official government agency. There are specific criteria outlined in a developer guidance document, and apps meeting these requirements can earn this official designation.
Finally, Google will introduce disclosures for advertisements and content generated using AI. The new disclosures include content labels and embedded SynthID digital watermarking for AI-produced text, audio, images, and video.
