Google introduced a new capability on Thursday, allowing users to apply its AI image generator, Nano Banana 2, to produce synthetic visuals directly within Google Earth, its satellite-based mapping platform. The stated goal, according to the company, was to encourage playful experimentation with geography. However, critics were quick to flag the potential for misuse, noting that the tool could easily be exploited to generate and circulate false information. Since the feature operated through text prompts and permitted virtually any image to be layered over authentic maps, it seemed destined to unleash a flood of misleading geospatial content.

“There’s no way that this new AI image generation feature on Google Earth, one of the most reliable sources of visual evidence for journalists and researchers, could possibly be abused to spread misinformation online,” a BBC journalist posted sarcastically on Thursday. Within just a day of its launch, Google has now pulled the feature entirely. “We’ve seen geospatial professionals using this feature for a range of useful purposes, however we’ve also seen people sharing screenshots of generated imagery that appear to violate our policies,” the company stated. “We’re rolling back this feature in Google Earth while we work on implementing stronger guardrails,” Google added.

The backlash against Google’s tool is certainly warranted, though it’s worth noting that in today’s AI-driven landscape, nearly any image available online can be easily altered. Creating semi-plausible disinformation no longer requires advanced Photoshop skills—all it takes is access to an AI image generator, which Google offers, as do numerous other tech companies.