Google Scraps Amateur Health Tips Feature

Google has ceased offering its "What People Suggest" AI search feature, which previously supplied users with crowdsourced health tips from amateurs globally. Three sources familiar with the decision confirmed its removal, which occurred several months ago. A Google spokesperson indicated this was part of a "broader simplification" of the search results page and not related to the feature's quality or safety.

This development arises amid growing concerns about Google's use of artificial intelligence for delivering health information. Earlier this year, an investigation revealed potential harm from false or misleading advice in Google AI Overviews, which reach 2 billion users monthly. Google initially downplayed these findings but later removed AI Overviews for some medical queries.

The "What People Suggest" feature was introduced last year, aiming to supplement expert medical information with insights from individuals who shared similar lived health experiences. While Google stated the feature was turned down as part of a public simplification, details about this were not readily available. The company maintains its commitment to providing reliable health information from various sources.