Google has recently unveiled a new Olympic advertisement featuring its AI program, Gemini, which has generated notable controversy.
The advertisement, entitled "Dear Sydney," portrays a father aiding his daughter in writing a letter to her idol, American Olympic track star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, utilizing Google's AI search feature for hurdling techniques.
While the advertisement seeks to underscore the benefits of using AI for personal correspondence, it has drawn criticism from several international media outlets, including New York Magazine, BroBible, INC.com, and CNN.
Critics argue that the commercial fails to evoke genuine emotions and inadvertently promotes laziness, thereby diminishing the value of personal effort. Many viewers have expressed their disappointment, particularly concerned about the loss of authenticity and personal touch when using AI instead of a handwritten message from a child. They worry that relying on AI for such tasks might suppress children's creativity and learning.
In response to the backlash, Google has disabled comments on the advertisement's YouTube video. Numerous posts on platforms such as Threads, X, and LinkedIn echo similar concerns, highlighting the ad's perceived lack of authenticity and inappropriate use of AI.
Truescope's analysis reveals that online comments concentrate on key themes such as the loss of authenticity and personal touch, as well as the misuse of AI's potential. Detractors suggest that the advertisement missed an opportunity to showcase AI in a more meaningful capacity, by fostering real connections between athletes and fans.
In a statement, a Google spokesperson reiterated that the company believes AI can augment human creativity but can never fully replace it. The intent of the advertisement was to highlight an authentic story celebrating Team USA and to demonstrate how the Gemini app can serve as an inspirational starting point for writing ideas.
