Google has clarified the capabilities and limitations of its AI image generation tools for Google Ads. These tools can generate generic product images, but avoid creating visuals that depict branded items or logos. If a user tries to generate an image with specific brands or logos, the system will trigger an error notification.
Google's Ads Liaison, Ginny Marvin, confirmed this, stating: “The tool will generate product images, but it won’t generate product images that include brand names or logos.” She provided an example, explaining that if you asked the tool to generate images of 'a dog in a pet stroller in a park with a Doggo logo,' you would get an error notification to remove mentions of brands and branded items.
Google's support documentation provides more details on using the AI image generation and editing capabilities. It notes that generative AI tools in Google Ads are designed to automatically limit the creation of certain content, listing "Faces, children, or specific individuals" and "Branded items and logos" as examples of restricted subject matter.
Google's documentation also addresses safety and responsible AI development. Generated images include digital watermarking to identify their AI-generated nature and deter misuse. Sensitive advertising verticals like politics and pharmaceuticals are also restricted from automatically receiving AI-generated image suggestions.
For advertisers, Google’s AI image generation tools can produce large volumes of high-quality generic product and lifestyle images at scale. By following the outlined guidelines around avoiding branded references, advertisers can generate a variety of visual assets suited for ecommerce product listings, display ads, social media marketing, and more. This can streamline traditionally time-consuming processes like product photoshoots while maintaining brand safety.
