Google Earth has temporarily suspended its newly launched AI image-generation feature just one day after its debut, following concerns that some users created images appearing to violate the company’s content policies.

The feature, powered by Google’s Nano Banana 2 artificial intelligence model, allowed users to generate photorealistic images of virtually any location by combining text prompts with Google Earth’s satellite, aerial, and 3D mapping data. The tool was designed to help users visualise locations in new ways using AI-generated imagery.

More than 100 words into the rollout, Google Earth drew criticism over the feature’s potential to create misleading or fabricated scenes involving real-world landmarks and locations. Critics warned that the technology could contribute to misinformation by enabling realistic but fictional images based on actual geographic locations.

In a statement posted on X, Google said it had observed professionals using the feature for legitimate geospatial applications but had also identified examples of AI-generated images that appeared to breach its policies.

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The company said it is temporarily pausing the capability while it develops stronger safeguards and additional protections to prevent misuse. Google did not specify which types of generated images violated its policies but confirmed that the AI-created content was clearly watermarked and did not appear within the standard Google Earth experience.

The decision highlights the challenges technology companies continue to face as they integrate generative AI into consumer products. Developers are increasingly balancing innovation with concerns surrounding misinformation, misuse, and responsible deployment of artificial intelligence.

The latest move follows similar actions across the technology industry. Earlier this month, Meta discontinued its Muse Image feature, which allowed users to generate AI images using public Instagram accounts, after the tool faced criticism over privacy concerns.

Google’s temporary suspension reflects the growing emphasis on strengthening AI safety measures before expanding advanced generative tools to a wider audience.