In a surprising turn of events, Google has decided to discontinue its “What People Suggest” feature, which aimed to provide health advice sourced from everyday users. This decision comes as the tech giant faces increasing scrutiny regarding the reliability and safety of the health information it presents to billions of users worldwide.
The Rise and Fall of “What People Suggest”
Launched with high expectations, “What People Suggest” was introduced as a tool to allow users to access insights from individuals with similar health experiences. Google initially heralded it as a groundbreaking application of artificial intelligence in the healthcare space, believing it could significantly enhance health outcomes globally. However, the feature was quietly removed, leading to questions about its efficacy and safety.
An insider familiar with the matter revealed that the feature was officially scrapped months ago as part of a wider effort to simplify Google’s search interface. While a spokesperson for the company maintained that the decision was not related to any concerns over the quality of the information being shared, the timing raises eyebrows amidst ongoing investigations into Google’s AI-generated health summaries.
Safety Concerns Spark Investigation
The move to eliminate “What People Suggest” resonates with a recent investigation by the Guardian, which uncovered alarming instances of users encountering misleading medical information through Google’s AI Overviews. These summaries, which reach approximately two billion users each month, have been linked to potentially harmful consequences due to their inaccuracies.
In response to the criticisms, Google had previously defended its AI Overviews, asserting that they were equipped with links to reputable sources and urged users to consult healthcare professionals. However, the company subsequently removed this feature for certain medical queries as concerns mounted.
A Shift in Strategy
In March 2025, during an event dubbed “The Check Up,” Google’s then-Chief Health Officer, Karen DeSalvo, detailed the vision behind “What People Suggest.” She expressed the importance of providing users with not only expert medical information but also insights from individuals who have faced similar health challenges. The feature aimed to compile a wealth of perspectives into a coherent format, helping users quickly identify relevant discussions—especially around conditions like arthritis and exercise routines.
Despite these ambitions, the feature’s discontinuation has prompted questions about the future direction of Google’s health-related initiatives. The latest “Check Up” event is set to take place soon, where new AI research and technological advancements will be showcased, indicating that the company is still committed to addressing pressing health issues, albeit through different avenues.
Why it Matters
The decision to scrap the “What People Suggest” feature highlights a critical moment for Google as it navigates the murky waters of AI in healthcare. As the company strives to balance innovation with user safety, this move reflects a growing recognition of the potential risks associated with crowdsourced medical advice. With the public increasingly aware of the pitfalls of misinformation, the spotlight is now firmly on tech giants to ensure that the health information they provide is not only accessible but also accurate and reliable. This development serves as a reminder that while technology can transform healthcare, it must be approached with caution and responsibility.
