Content Warning: Please note that the video containing the Google Alert screenshot is uncensored and contains the racist slur in full. Viewer discretion is advised before clicking.
Google has apologized after users received an AI-generated Google alert containing a racist slur. The alert was sent out regarding a new story about the BAFTAs, where actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were subject to a racial slur while on stage. The heckling came from Tourette’s campaigner John Davidson, who has since addressed the incident.
The story sent to Google users was from the Hollywood Reporter, titled How the Tourette’s Fallout Unfolded at the BAFTA Film Awards. However, the AI-generated text underneath said “see more on,” followed by the N-word. Those who saw the alert took to social media to voice their disgust.
Malynda Hale called out the racist slur being included on a Google Alert
Actress, activist, and podcaster Malynda Hale was one of the users to share the notification, which was sent to a friend of hers. “I have made it a point to not curse on my page, but seriously, Google, what the f*ck?” she said in an Instagram video.
“We’re tired. This is the worst Black History Month I’ve ever experienced in my life.”
She went on to conclude, “This is shameful.” Since then, the video, and other similar posts online, have received widespread attention and condemnation.
A spokesperson for Google talked to Deadline when reached out for a comment regarding the controversy. “We’re very sorry for this mistake. We’ve removed the offensive notification and are working to prevent this from happening again,” they told the outlet.
Google’s embrace of Artificial Intelligence in recent years across its platform has been met with divisive responses from users. Apple, one of the tech giant’s greatest competitors, scrapped the use of AI on its news service last year. The decision arose mainly from a notification falsely informed users that Luigi Mangione, the man accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, had died by self-inflicted gunshot wound.
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