In a surprising turn of events, Google has decided to discontinue its “What People Suggest” feature, which aimed to provide users with crowdsourced health advice from individuals sharing similar experiences. Initially launched with the promise of revolutionising health outcomes through artificial intelligence, the feature has faced increasing scrutiny and criticism, leading to its quiet removal from the search engine.
A Bold Experiment in Health Advice
Launched with much fanfare, “What People Suggest” was designed to harness the power of AI to curate health-related insights from people across the globe. Google envisioned a platform where users could share personal experiences related to medical conditions, thereby creating a community-driven repository of advice. Karen DeSalvo, Google’s then-chief health officer, articulated the intention behind the feature, stating, “While people come to search to find reliable medical information from experts, they also value hearing from others who have similar experiences.”
The concept was appealing: a user seeking advice on managing arthritis could easily access the experiences of others in similar situations, potentially uncovering useful insights. The feature was initially available on mobile devices in the United States, with hopes of expanding its reach.
Safety Concerns and Public Backlash
However, the feature’s journey was not without controversy. Following a Guardian investigation in January, concerns surfaced regarding the accuracy and safety of the health information being disseminated through the AI Overviews that preceded “What People Suggest.” This investigation revealed that users were at risk of encountering misleading health advice, prompting a wave of public and expert criticism.
In response to the backlash, Google sought to reassure users, claiming that the AI Overviews linked to reputable sources and encouraged users to consult health professionals. Yet, the unease lingered, and the company was forced to retract the AI Overviews for certain medical queries shortly thereafter.
Quiet Discontinuation Amidst Simplification Efforts
Fast forward to March 2026, and it appears that Google has quietly shelved “What People Suggest.” Sources familiar with the decision indicated that the discontinuation is part of a broader strategy to simplify the search results page. A spokesperson confirmed that the feature’s removal was not influenced by safety concerns, insisting it was a strategic move rather than a reaction to public scrutiny.
Despite this explanation, the absence of clear communication regarding the feature’s discontinuation has raised eyebrows. Even blog posts and public announcements related to Google’s health initiatives have failed to mention the fate of “What People Suggest,” adding to the confusion surrounding its removal.
The Future of AI in Health Search
As Google gears up for its next health-focused event, “The Check Up,” anticipation builds around what new innovations and research the tech giant will unveil. With chief health officer Michael Howell leading the discussion, there is hope that Google will shift its focus towards providing more reliable, user-friendly health information without the pitfalls of crowdsourced advice.
Why it Matters
The discontinuation of “What People Suggest” underscores the delicate balance tech companies must maintain when integrating AI into sensitive areas like health. As users increasingly turn to search engines for medical advice, the responsibility to ensure accuracy and safety becomes paramount. This latest development serves as a reminder that while technology has the potential to enhance our understanding of health, the risk of misinformation can have serious consequences. As Google navigates these challenges, the future of AI in health-related search stands at a critical juncture, demanding careful consideration and responsibility.
