Google Bard Now Generates AI Images

Google Bard has recently rolled out an update, introducing an AI image generation feature. This move comes as no surprise considering the current popularity of image generation tools. The update leverages the Imagen 2 model to deliver a balance between speed and quality, resulting in photorealistic images.

Users can activate the AI image generator by entering a few words into the search bar, starting with English prompts. Jack Krawczyk, Product Lead for Bard, explains, “Click ‘Generate more’ for more options and download the ones you like.”

The AI-generated images are stored in pinned chats, recent chats, and Bard Activity. Krawczyk spoke about the simplicity of the process, stating, “Those generated images can be deleted from your Bard Activity by deleting the prompt that generated them.”

This user-friendly approach intends make AI image generation more accessible. Though, the availability of this feature is limited to users aged 18 and above, and it excludes regions like the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and the UK.

 

Bard’s Responsible Approach: Addressing Legal and Ethical Concerns

 

To address potential legal and ethical concerns, Google has implemented safeguards in Bard’s image generation. The company embeds digitally identifiable watermarks into the pixels of generated images using SynthID. This distinctive feature sets AI-generated images apart from those created by humans, preventing unauthorised commercial use.

Google acknowledges the need for responsibility, asserting that Bard aims to limit violent, offensive, or sexual content in training data. Krawczyk notes, “We apply filters to prevent named people from being involved in image generation.”

The responsible approach extends beyond image generation, as Bard with Gemini Pro receives an upgrade. Krawczyk explains, “Bard will be far more capable at things like understanding, summarising, reasoning, brainstorming, writing, and planning.”

This enhancement aligns with Google’s commitment to building Bard responsibly and emphasises the tech giant’s dedication to privacy and safety protections.
 

 

Bard’s Global Expansion and Multilingual Capabilities

 

Bard’s recent updates extend beyond image generation, showcasing its growing capabilities and global reach. Google introduces Bard with Gemini Pro in multiple languages, making it available worldwide. This expansion allows Bard to understand, reason, and collaborate in more languages and countries.

The Large Model Systems Organisation praises Bard with Gemini Pro, highlighting its advanced conversational AI capabilities, thus positioning it as a strong contender in the AI chatbot space.

The double-check feature, already used by millions in English, expands to over 40 languages. When users click on the “G” icon, Bard evaluates its responses by searching the web for supporting or contradicting information.

This enhancement contributes to users’ ability to corroborate Bard’s responses in various languages, further establishing Bard as a reliable AI collaborator.

 

ImageFX: Google’s Experimental Photo Tool

 

Google doesn’t stop at Bard’s image generation; it introduces ImageFX, an experimental photo tool powered by Imagen 2. This tool allows users to create images with simple text prompts, providing a creative outlet for generative AI exploration.

Like Bard’s image generation, ImageFX marks generated photos with SynthID, stressing the need for transparency and responsibility in AI-generated content. The tool joins Google’s suite of AI creation tools, including MusicFX and TextFX, offering users diverse ways to engage with generative AI.

However, Google’s decision to make Bard’s image generation available at no cost sets it apart from competitors like ChatGPT Plus, which requires a subscription. While both chatbots are noted for their performance, Bard’s free access to AI image generation may attract users seeking creative freedom without financial commitments.