In a significant move, Google has decided to discontinue its much-debated feature, “What People Suggest”, which provided users with crowdsourced health tips from everyday individuals. Initially hailed as an innovative application of artificial intelligence designed to enhance health outcomes worldwide, the feature faced increasing criticism and scrutiny regarding the reliability of the advice it offered.
The Rise and Fall of “What People Suggest”
Launched with great fanfare, “What People Suggest” aimed to connect users with perspectives from people sharing similar medical experiences. Google’s then Chief Health Officer, Karen DeSalvo, introduced the feature at a New York event in March 2025, touting its potential to enrich users’ search experiences. “While people come to search to find reliable medical information from experts, they also value hearing from others who have similar experiences,” DeSalvo remarked, highlighting the tool’s dual focus on expert and peer advice.
The feature was initially available on mobile devices in the United States, allowing users to discover insights from fellow patients. For instance, someone managing arthritis could quickly access tips from others who have navigated similar challenges, creating a community of shared experience. However, this ambitious endeavour has now been deemed too risky, leading to its quiet removal.
Safety Concerns and Scrutiny
The decision to axe “What People Suggest” follows growing concerns about the accuracy and safety of AI-generated health information. An investigation by the Guardian in January 2026 exposed the dangers of misleading health advice prevalent in Google’s AI Overviews, which are viewed by approximately 2 billion users each month. These summaries, which appear above traditional search results, were flagged for potentially putting users at risk of harm due to inaccurate information.
Initially, Google attempted to downplay the findings, stressing that the AI Overviews linked to reputable sources and encouraged users to consult medical professionals. However, the pressure mounted, leading to the retraction of AI Overviews for certain medical queries, signalling a proactive approach in response to the unfolding crisis.
Google’s Shift in Strategy
A spokesperson for Google confirmed the discontinuation of “What People Suggest”, framing it as part of a broader effort to simplify the search results page. “It had nothing to do with the quality or safety of the feature,” they asserted, emphasising the company’s ongoing commitment to providing trustworthy health information from various sources. This statement, however, raises questions about the feature’s initial launch and the potential risks it posed to users.
The spokesperson also referenced a blog post from November 2025 by John Mueller, a search advocate at Google, which hinted at changes in the search landscape but notably failed to mention the fate of “What People Suggest”. This inconsistency has left some observers seeking clarity on the rationale behind the decision.
Future Directions for Health Information
As Google moves forward, the company is gearing up for its next “Check Up” event, scheduled for Tuesday. At this gathering, Chief Health Officer Michael Howell and other key personnel will discuss how Google plans to integrate new AI research and technological innovations to tackle pressing health challenges. This pivot indicates a renewed focus on curating reliable health information, steering clear of the crowdsourced model that has proven controversial.
Why it Matters
The discontinuation of “What People Suggest” is more than just a corporate decision; it reflects a critical moment in the intersection of technology and healthcare. As users increasingly turn to online platforms for medical advice, the responsibility to provide accurate, safe, and reliable information is paramount. Google’s retreat from this feature underscores the delicate balance between innovation and public safety, and it raises essential questions about how tech giants will navigate the complexities of health information dissemination in the future. For users, it serves as a reminder to approach online health advice with caution and to prioritise expert opinions over anecdotal experiences.
