Google went overboard with AI image editor Reimagine – it produces too realistic results

Google, along with the Pixel 9 smartphones, announced a new photo editing tool using artificial intelligence called Reimagine. This function, which is a development of the Magic Editor tool, allows you not only to change the background, but also to add objects to the photo using text prompts.

Image source: Google for Developers/YouTube

According to journalists from The Verge who tested the new feature, the results often look very convincing, with the right lighting, shadows and perspective. However, testing has shown that Reimagine can be used to create disturbing content, including scenes of violence and the addition of prohibited items. Journalists were able to generate a lot of images of accidents and, accordingly, everything that could be connected with it.

Google spokesman Alex Moriconi said: “We design our generative AI tools with user intent in mind, but we have clear terms and conditions of use that define what content is and is not acceptable.” Despite Moricone’s words, journalists easily circumvented the restrictions by using creative wording in text queries.

Image source: Chris Welch/The Verge

While photo editing is nothing new, Reimagine makes the process incredibly easy and accessible. Now any user of the new Pixel can realistically add any objects to a photo, including bypassing Google rules, accident scenes or other disturbing elements, spending just a few seconds on it.

«Maybe everyone will follow Google’s AI rules and use Reimagine to add colors and rainbows to their photos. That would be great! But just in case, you should be a little skeptical about the photos you see online,” concludes Allison Johnson of The Verge.