'Gemini unreliable': Google apologizes after AI chatbot calls Modi 'fascist'
What's the story
Google has apologized to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after its AI platform, Gemini, generated controversial comments about him, sparking outrage.
In response to a query, Google's AI bot said that Modi's policies were 'fascist'.
India's Minister of State for IT & Electronics, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, shared that the government had sent a notice to Google demanding an explanation for the "unsubstantiated" results.
Now, Google has admitted that its Gemini AI platform is "unreliable" and offered an apology.
The aftermath
AI platforms now require permits to operate in India
In response to the incident, the Indian government has declared that AI platforms must obtain a permit to operate in the country.
Authorities said India should not serve as a testing ground for AI platforms.
The concern stems from AI data being released to the public without proper testing or safeguards.
Chandrasekhar stated that underdeveloped platforms would not be allowed to launch full services without informing users about potential misleading or false information.
Advisory issued
Government issues advisory to AI start-ups
The government has issued an advisory to several technology companies, stressing the importance of labeling unverified information as potentially false and prone to errors.
Chandrasekhar has urged AI platforms to respect Indian consumers. He said the companies could face prosecution under for violations and spreading false information.
He also clarified that start-ups are not required to seek prior permission for the launch of AI products. Only "major platforms" have to obtain permission from government before deploying "error-prone platforms."
Apologies
Google CEO previously apologized for Gemini's shortcomings
Prior to the controversy surrounding Gemini's response to Modi's policies, Google CEO Sundar Pichai had apologized for the flaws of the AI chatbot.
Gemini provided incorrect answers to basic questions like Google's co-founders and America's founding fathers. It also generated images showing racial diversity in the composition of Germany's Nazi army during WWII.
Pichai confessed that Google was at fault and that these mistakes were unacceptable.