Google has withdrawn a newly launched artificial intelligence feature that enabled users to generate fake images over its satellite maps, less than 48 hours after its release, following concerns over its potential to fuel misinformation.

The decision came after a BBC Verify report cited experts who warned that the tool could be misused to create and circulate misleading visual content.

The feature, powered by Google’s Nano Banana 2 AI image generator and recently integrated into Google Earth, allowed users to use text prompts to create fabricated scenes layered over authentic satellite, aerial and 3D imagery.

The manipulated images could then be downloaded and shared across other platforms.

In a statement released on Friday, Google said it was suspending the feature “while we work on implementing stronger guardrails.”

The company added that it had detected “people sharing screenshots of generated imagery that appear to violate our policies,” prompting it to pause the rollout while it strengthens safeguards against misuse.

“We know that people uniquely trust Google Earth for a reliable view of the world,” it added.

Experts said the tool could be exploited to spread misinformation by giving fabricated images the appearance of Google’s credibility, warning that malicious actors could misuse the feature to create and circulate deceptive content.