New Delhi: Tech giant Google has withdrawn its “Dear Sydney” ad campaign promoting its Gemini AI platform from its Olympics television lineup. The move comes after widespread criticism on social media regarding the ad’s portrayal of artificial intelligence in a parent-child relationship.
The ad, which aired during NBCUniversal’s Olympic coverage including primetime slots on NBC and USA Network, featured a father using the Gemini AI tool to write a letter to Olympic track star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone on behalf of his daughter, a young runner.
While Google initially defended the ad, claiming it showcased “a real-life track enthusiast and her father” and how Gemini could be a “thought starter” for creative writing, viewers and advertising professionals expressed strong disapproval.
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Critics pointed out the ad’s tone-deafness, arguing that it undermines the importance of personal expression in a child’s development. Concerns were also raised about the potential for AI to replace meaningful human connection and creativity.
While the ad is no longer running on television, it remains available on YouTube, with comments disabled. The incident highlights the evolving conversation surrounding the role of artificial intelligence in society, particularly its impact on human interaction and creative expression.
