News May 31, 2024
Google Admits Its AI Overviews Search Feature Screwed Up
When Google’s new AI Overview feature started generating bizarre and misleading answers to search queries, the company downplayed the issue, but later admitted that the errors highlighted areas in need of improvement. The head of search, Liz Reid, explained what happened and the steps taken to address the issues. She cited examples of incorrect results, including one suggesting eating rocks can be good for you and another recommending using nontoxic glue to thicken pizza sauce. These mistakes were attributed to misinterpretation of satirical content and a sense of humor failure. Reid also warned against judging the feature based on viral screenshots and emphasized that extensive testing was done before its launch, with data showing people value AI Overviews. The company claims some widely distributed screenshots were fake and made technical improvements to address issues, including better detection of nonsensical queries and strengthening guardrails for important topics like health.
Engadget Podcast: MoviePass founder Stacy Spikes on the MovieCrash documentary
The article appears to be a transcript of an episode of the “Podcasting Gadget” podcast, where two hosts, Devindra and Nate, discuss various topics related to technology, gadgets, and pop culture.
Some of the key points discussed in this episode include:
- The hosts’ experiences with Apple’s iCloud storage issues, including confusion about how storage is allocated across different devices.
- A discussion about the new Marvel VR experience on the Oculus Quest 2, which they found to be visually impressive but lacking in terms of gameplay and control.
- A recommendation for a band called Dotter, who released a live performance video featuring their music.
- A review of the movie “Hitman” (not to be confused with the video game adaptations), starring Glenn Powell, which is set to release on Netflix soon.
The hosts also mention some personal projects they’re working on, such as Nate’s Chromebook reviews and Devindra’s hands-on experience with the Oculus Quest 2. They also discuss their plans for upcoming events like WWDC and Summer Game Fest.
Overall, this episode seems to be a lighthearted and entertaining discussion about various tech-related topics, with some personal anecdotes and recommendations thrown in.
Google is putting more restrictions on AI Overviews after it told people to put glue on pizza
Liz Reid, the Head of Google Search, has recently addressed concerns about the company’s new AI-generated responses, which have been returning some unusual and inaccurate results. While acknowledging that some of these responses may seem bizarre or even humorous, Reid emphasized that they are often based on real information, albeit from unconventional sources such as satirical websites or forums. She explained that Google’s AI technology is still learning to distinguish between serious and humorous content, and has implemented safeguards to prevent the spread of misinformation. The company has also updated its systems to limit the inclusion of user-generated replies in search results, which can sometimes provide misleading or harmful advice. Reid assured users that Google is committed to providing accurate and helpful information, and will continue to refine its AI technology to achieve this goal.
iOS 18 rumors: Everything we know so far
Apple is gearing up to release iOS 18, a major update that will bring significant AI-powered features to iPhone users. The new operatingerinassistant
X’s best reactions to Trump’s 34 felony convictions
Former President Donald Trump has made history by becoming the first erstwhile Commander in Chief to be convicted of a felony, with a whopping 34 counts of falsifying business records on his plate. The self-proclaimed “world-class businessman” is now facing the possibility of jail time and a fine, although an appeal is all but certain. As news of his conviction spread like wildfire online, internet denizens couldn’t help but poke fun at Trump’s misfortune, with many critics celebrating the guilty verdict while others tempered their expectations. Meanwhile, Republicans are left to grapple with the bizarre situation of having a convicted felon as their candidate for President, and Trump’s supporters have already begun crying foul, claiming the trial was “rigged.” As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: this is a wild ride that will continue to captivate the nation until the election in November.