Google has withdrawn an AI image-generation feature from Google Earth just one day after launching it, following criticism that it could facilitate misinformation. The prompt-based tool let users place fabricated images over genuine satellite maps, raising concerns about undermining a platform widely used by journalists, researchers and geospatial professionals.

Google said some professionals had found legitimate uses for the feature, but that generated-image screenshots appeared to breach its policies. The company has rolled it back while developing stronger safeguards; the episode also reflects a wider problem, as accessible AI tools make convincing image manipulation far easier than before.