Google has removed an AI feature from its search platform that had been collecting and displaying health advice from anonymous online contributors. The tool, called “What People Suggest,” was designed to provide users with community-sourced health insights curated by AI, but has since been quietly discontinued. The decision comes amid mounting concern about the safety and reliability of AI-generated health information on Google’s platform.
Launched at a dedicated health conference in New York, the feature was presented as part of Google’s effort to make health search more human and experiential. Former chief health officer Karen DeSalvo promoted the feature as a bridge between clinical resources and authentic patient experiences. At launch, it was only available to mobile users in the US, though broader rollout appeared to be planned.
Despite Google’s claim that safety had no bearing on the removal, the timing and context are hard to separate from the broader controversy. The company’s spokesperson pointed to a generic blog post as its public announcement of the change, but that post made no mention of the feature. One insider summed it up directly: “It’s dead.”
Google has been under significant pressure over its AI health products, particularly after an investigation revealed widespread inaccuracies in its AI Overviews shown to two billion monthly users. In response, the company removed some medical AI summaries but maintained others, a decision that did not fully satisfy health experts or patient advocacy groups.
The company’s next “The Check Up” event, where new health AI announcements are expected, will be closely observed by industry stakeholders and critics. Demonstrating genuine progress in AI health safety — not just innovation — will be key to restoring Google’s credibility in this space. The rapid rise and fall of “What People Suggest” stands as a reminder that health AI requires more than good intentions to succeed.