Google Search has recently updated its documentation to include support for an IPTC digital source type that appears to be related to algorithmically generated or modified images. This update focuses on the compositeWithTrainedAlgorithmicMedia tag, introduced by IPTC in April 2022.
Google's documentation defines this tag as:
compositeWithTrainedAlgorithmicMedia: The image is a composite of trained algorithmic media with some other media, such as with inpainting or outpainting operations.
While Google's definition doesn't explicitly mention artificial intelligence, the IPTC originally introduced this tag to identify content created or modified using AI technologies. Here's an image example of how IPTC defines trainedAlgorithmicMedia:
This suggests that Google Search may now be able to recognize metadata indicating the use of advanced algorithmic processes in image creation. For SEO professionals, this update underscores the importance of properly tagging images, particularly those involving composite or computationally generated elements. It may also impact how such images are processed or displayed in search results.
