DuckDuckGo Lets You Filter AI-Generated Images

DuckDuckGo Introduces AI Image Filtering in Search

The privacy-centric browser, DuckDuckGo, is implementing a new user setting designed to filter out images generated by artificial intelligence from its search results.

This feature was developed in direct response to user feedback indicating that AI-generated imagery can sometimes hinder the process of locating desired information.

Accessing the AI Image Filter

Users can now manage their AI image preferences directly within DuckDuckGo search. Navigate to the Images tab after performing a search.

A new drop-down menu labeled “AI images” will be visible. Selecting either “show” or “hide” allows users to control the inclusion of AI-created content.

Alternatively, the filter can be activated permanently through the search settings by selecting the “Hide AI-Generated Images” option.

Addressing the Rise of Low-Quality AI Content

The introduction of this feature coincides with a significant increase in what is being termed “AI slop” – referring to the proliferation of low-quality media produced using generative AI technologies.

DuckDuckGo is utilizing publicly available resources to power this filter. The system relies on manually maintained open-source blocklists.

These include the “nuclear” list from uBlockOrigin and the uBlacklist Huge AI Blocklist. While not exhaustive, this approach will substantially decrease the visibility of AI-generated images.

Future Enhancements Planned

DuckDuckGo has announced intentions to expand its filtering capabilities in the future, though specific details regarding these additions have not yet been disclosed.

Context: The Baby Peacock Controversy

The example image used by DuckDuckGo to demonstrate the new feature depicts a search for a baby peacock.

This is likely a reference to a previous situation involving Google, which faced criticism for prioritizing AI-generated images of baby peacocks over authentic photographs in similar search queries.