Google requires transparency for AI-Generated images in Merchant Center

Google Merchant Center has implemented new requirements for merchants using AI-generated images in their product listings. These requirements aim to increase transparency and ensure responsible use of technology.

Google Merchant Center
Google Merchant Center

Google Merchant Center has implemented new requirements for merchants using AI-generated images in their product listings. These requirements aim to increase transparency and ensure responsible use of technology.

All AI-generated images must contain the "trainedAlgorithmicMedia" tag: This IPTC metadata tag clearly indicates that the image was created using generative AI.

Removing existing metadata tags is prohibited: Merchants cannot alter or remove any tags that identify the image's origin.

Requirement applies to various image fields: The specified tag must be present in "image_link," "additional_image_link," and "lifestyle_image_link" attributes within both Merchant Center Classic and Merchant Center Next.

Reasoning Behind the Policy:

  • Transparency for consumers: This initiative empowers consumers to make informed decisions by clearly identifying AI-generated content.
  • Context for Google Search: Preserved metadata helps Google Search engines understand the image's characteristics and provide relevant results.
  • Responsible AI use: Google advocates for ethical and responsible use of AI technology in advertising and marketing.

Merchants utilizing AI-generated images in Merchant Center listings must comply with these new requirements. Failure to do so may result in product disapprovals or other account-level actions. This policy reflects Google's broader commitment to transparency and responsible use of AI in its platforms.


PPC Land is an international news publication headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany. PPC Land delivers daily articles brimming with the latest news for marketing professionals of all experience levels.

Subscribe to our newsletter for just $10/year and get marketing news delivered straight to your inbox. By subscribing, you are supporting PPC Land.

You can also follow PPC Land on LinkedIn, Bluesky, Reddit, Mastodon, X, Facebook, Threads, and Google News.

Know more about us or contact us via info@ppc.land

Our latest marketing news:

Subscribe via email

Don’t miss out on the latest marketing news. Sign up now to get the articles directly in your email.
jamie@example.com
Subscribe