Google Gemini live demo failed twice during the Pixel 9 event—reminding us why you can’t always trust AI

tech.hindustantimes.com:

Google launched the Pixel 9 series of devices yesterday at the Made by Google event. However, before unveiling the new Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google demonstrated the new Gemini features through a live demo on stage. But, as luck would have it, the demo failed—not once, but twice. This occurred while trying to showcase how well the new Gemini mobile AI features work with the calendar app by feeding it information through an image. However, once the prompt was submitted via voice, after several seconds of processing, Gemini failed to respond. This happened twice, and it only worked when the device was switched to a different Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Also Read: Google takes a ‘dig' at Apple Intelligence at the Pixel 9 series launch event, touts Gemini AI features

As it stands, the aforementioned incident wasn't the only time Gemini malfunctioned. In fact, during a demonstration of the new Magic Editor feature—Google's attempt at expanding on the Magic Eraser—the AI created an awkward object in the second photo after attempting to manipulate an image by adding a hot air balloon. This shows that generative artificial intelligence, at least in its current form, cannot be trusted at all times.

Moreover, companies like Google itself acknowledge this fact. Back in February, Google stated that Gemini is a creativity and productivity tool, and it “may not always be reliable especially when it comes to generating images or text about current events, evolving news or hot-button topics. It will make mistakes.” Google attributes this to “hallucinations” in Large Language Models, and there are instances where AI will get things wrong.

Also Read: Google launches Siri's rival with Gemini Live for Android: Know what it is and how it works

If you recall, earlier this year, the Google Gemini app (formerly Bard) introduced the ability to generate images, but Google had to withdraw the feature after it generated inaccurate and sometimes even offensive images.

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