Google's Gemini AI faces backlash for erasing image watermarks

Google’s Gemini 2.0 Flash AI model faces backlash for removing watermarks from images, including those from stock agencies like Getty Images.

The experimental AI tool can erase watermarks and reconstruct images with high precision, though it struggles with semi-transparent or large marks.

Available only through Google’s AI Studio, the tool lacks safeguards against misuse, unlike OpenAI’s GPT-4o and Anthropic’s Claude 3.7 Sonnet.

Critics warn that removing watermarks without consent could violate US copyright laws and lead to legal issues for users and Google.

Recent Google developments

Timeline
15-Mar-2025 🤖 Google seeks relaxed copyright, export rules for AI edge Google proposes easing AI copyright restrictions Calls for unified federal AI regulation and research funding
13-Mar-2025 🤖 Google unveils Gemini AI models to enhance robotics tasks Google launches Gemini Robotics AI models Models enhance robotics for factories and warehouses
12-Mar-2025 💰 Google to invest $750m more in Anthropic, total tops $3b Google invests $750M more in Anthropic. Total investment surpasses $3B, raising independence concerns.
10-Mar-2025 📰 Google removes DEI terms from AI ethics webpage Google removes ‘diversity’ from AI webpage Tech giants cut back DEI programs amid scrutiny
07-Mar-2025 🤖 Google co-founder reportedly formed new AI startup Larry Page launches AI startup Dynatomics. Focus on AI for efficient product manufacturing.

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