Google's Super Bowl Ad Controversy: Gemini AI and Historical Accuracy

Google faced significant backlash over its Super Bowl LVIII advertisement featuring its AI model Gemini, particularly regarding historical accuracy about the invention of Gouda cheese. The ad showed Gemini generating an image suggesting Gouda cheese was invented in 2025, which was incorrect as the cheese originated in the Netherlands around the 12th century. This error highlighted ongoing concerns about AI accuracy and reliability. The controversy led to widespread criticism on social media, with users pointing out that such basic factual errors could undermine trust in AI systems. Google acknowledged the mistake and clarified that the error occurred during the ad’s creative process, not from Gemini itself. The incident sparked broader discussions about AI’s limitations and the importance of fact-checking AI-generated content. The timing was particularly unfortunate for Google, as it had just rebranded its Bard AI to Gemini and was using the Super Bowl platform to introduce the new brand to a massive audience. This situation serves as a cautionary tale about the need for careful verification of AI-generated content, even in high-profile marketing materials, and demonstrates the challenges companies face in balancing innovative AI demonstrations with factual accuracy.

Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/google-super-bowl-ad-gemini-ai-gouda-cheese-2025-2