A significant update that demands attention comes from Google in February 2024, concerning using AI-generated images within the Google Merchant Center and its Product Studio feature.
Understanding the Change
Google’s Product Studio feature, accessible through the Google and YouTube app for Shopify and in Google Merchant Center Next, now mandates a critical guideline for AI-generated images. Merchants are prohibited from removing any metadata tags from these images. This directive aligns with an anticipated European law, aiming to enhance transparency by mandating the disclosure of AI involvement in image creation.
Why This Matters
The essence of this update is transparency. The forthcoming European law underscores the necessity for clarity about AI’s role in content generation, reflecting a broader push towards ethical AI use. For merchants, this means a shift in how they handle image metadata, ensuring that the AI-generated nature of images remains identifiable.
What Merchants Need to Know
A common query from merchants might be about their involvement with metadata tags, especially for those who do not actively modify them. The concern here revolves around image compression tools, which will strip away essential metadata when set to a lossy compression mode. The solution? Opt for lossless compression methods. This approach preserves the metadata, keeping you compliant with the new guidelines.
Consider comparing the metadata tags before and after compression to ensure nothing is removed.
Uploaded or Linked Images
While the primary focus is on images created within the Product Studio, it’s prudent to assume that any AI-generated images uploaded to Google Shopping must also retain their metadata. This is currently not reflected in the policy update; however, I believe this is the case.
This broader application underscores the importance of understanding and utilizing the correct image compression settings.
Leveraging Metadata Correctly
For those unfamiliar, metadata in images includes details about the image’s creation, modifications, and properties. The IPTC (International Press Telecommunications Council) photo metadata standards provide a framework for this information. Adhering to these standards aligns with regulatory compliance and enhances the organization and accessibility of digital images.