Google’s AI chatbot, Bard, is facing reliability issues, prompting users to cross-check its responses with traditional Google search. Launched in February as a potential alternative to Search, Bard is still under development and its homepage now carries a disclaimer stating that it may provide incorrect answers. Debbie Weinstein, Google UK’s Managing Director, acknowledged that Bard won’t always offer trustworthy information and encouraged users to use Google’s search engine for reliable results.
This is not the first time concerns have been raised about Bard’s reliability. Earlier this year, an internal document obtained by Bloomberg revealed that 18 current and former Google employees expressed dissatisfaction with the chatbot, claiming it prioritized keeping up with competition over delivering accurate information. The document also highlighted concerns regarding ethical commitments.
Furthermore, the contractors responsible for training Bard have expressed their discontent with their working conditions. Overworked, underpaid, and stressed, the contract workers complained about tight deadlines and the complexity of their tasks. They were asked to review Bard’s responses across various subjects without adequate training. The workers also revealed that since Google entered a competitive race with OpenAI, their workload had increased significantly.
One contractor who spoke to Bloomberg expressed concerns about the prevailing culture of fear within the company. This stressed environment, he argued, hinders quality and teamwork.
In a letter to Congress, a Google contract worker warned that Bard could become a faulty and dangerous product due to the pressures to review content within tight deadlines. The worker highlighted that they were paid as little as USD 14 per hour for their efforts.
Google is now faced with addressing the reliability issues surrounding Bard and improving the working conditions for its contractors. With users being urged to cross-check responses with the regular search engine, it may take longer than anticipated for Bard to become a trusted source of information. As Google works towards refining its AI chatbot, transparency and accuracy will be key areas to focus on to regain users’ trust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Related to the Above News
What is Bard?
Bard is an AI chatbot developed by Google that is aimed at providing answers to users' queries.
Why are users being urged to cross-check Bard's responses with traditional Google search?
Users are being urged to cross-check Bard's responses with traditional Google search because Bard is currently experiencing reliability issues and may provide incorrect answers.
What disclaimer does Bard's homepage have now?
Bard's homepage now carries a disclaimer stating that it may provide incorrect answers.
What concerns have been raised about Bard's reliability?
Concerns have been raised about Bard's reliability by both users and Google employees, including issues related to inaccurate information and the prioritization of competition over accuracy.
What concerns have the contractors responsible for training Bard expressed?
The contractors responsible for training Bard have expressed concerns about their working conditions, including being overworked, underpaid, and stressed. They also complained about tight deadlines and inadequate training.
How has Google's competitive race with OpenAI affected the contractors' workload?
Since Google entered a competitive race with OpenAI, the contractors' workload has increased significantly.
What concerns have been raised about the prevailing culture within Google?
Concerns have been raised about a prevailing culture of fear within the company, which is believed to hinder quality and teamwork.
What warnings have been given regarding Bard becoming faulty and dangerous?
A Google contract worker warned in a letter to Congress that Bard could become a faulty and dangerous product due to the pressures to review content within tight deadlines.
How much were the contractors paid for their efforts?
The contractors were paid as little as USD 14 per hour for their efforts.
What areas should Google focus on to regain users' trust in Bard?
Google should focus on transparency and accuracy to regain users' trust in Bard.
Please note that the FAQs provided on this page are based on the news article published. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is always recommended to consult relevant authorities or professionals before making any decisions or taking action based on the FAQs or the news article.
