Google Quickly Rolls Back a Feature That Could Make Deepfake Satellite Images

Jul 31, 2026 · 7:23 PM UTC ·3 min read · 0 reactions · 0 comments · 6 views

#ai #geospatial #misinformation #google #technology

Google Quickly Rolls Back a Feature That Could Make Deepfake Satellite Images

TL;DR · WeSearch summary

Google introduced an AI image generation feature for Google Earth using its Nano Banana 2 model, allowing users to create custom visuals over satellite and 3D maps. After researchers highlighted the potential for realistic deepfake images and misinformation, the company faced criticism. Google subsequently removed the feature and announced plans to strengthen its safeguards.

Key facts

▪Google launched the Nano Banana 2 feature on Thursday, enabling AI-generated images based on Google Earth’s satellite, aerial, and 3D data.
▪Researchers demonstrated that the tool could create convincing fake images, such as a fabricated nuclear plant in Iran, raising concerns about misinformation.
▪Following the backlash, Google withdrew the feature on Friday and said it would develop stronger guardrails for future use.
▪The generated images were only visible to the individual user, watermarked as AI-generated, but could still be shared via screenshots or saved projects.

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Original publisher	CNET
Canonical URL	https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/google-quickly-rolls-back-a-feature-that-could-make-deepfake-satellite-images/
Publication time	2026-07-31T19:23:00Z
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand

Tech > Services & Software > AI Google Quickly Rolls Back a Feature That Could Make Deepfake Satellite Images Google Earth's AI image generator let me put my dream home in Central Park, but other potential uses aren't so innocent. Dashia Milden Editor Dashia is the consumer insights editor for CNET.… Read full bio Dashia Milden Editor Read full bio July 31, 2026, 3:24 pm ET 2 min read Google removed the feature on Friday. Dashia Milden/CNET Google announced a new way to use AI this week. Then pulled it a day later. As of Thursday, you could use the company’s Nano Banana 2 AI model to generate images based on Google Earth’s satellite, aerial and 3D images.

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