Recently, photos claiming to feature Elon Musk alongside other major tech executives have gained significant traction on platforms like X and Bluesky. Set in ordinary settings, such as modest apartments and McDonald’s parking lots, the images should have raised some skepticism among viewers. However, there’s now an intuitive method for everyday users to verify the authenticity of these images, making it not only easy but also quite beneficial.
As a professional in the digital landscape, I must stress that most AI image detectors available online aren’t particularly reliable. Many users turn to platforms like Grok to assess whether an image is AI-generated, only to often receive incorrect answers, sometimes in amusing ways.
Unveiling Google’s SynthID Watermark
A couple of years ago, Google introduced an AI watermark known as SynthID, initially restricting user access to check whether a specific image contained the watermark. Fortunately, this barrier was recently lifted. Now, anyone can upload an image to Gemini to see if it features the invisible SynthID watermark.
The watermark itself is intricately embedded within the pixels of images created using Google’s AI tools. With Gemini now allowing users to perform these checks easily, it’s a game-changer.
If you’re looking at an image and want to confirm its origin, simply upload it to the Gemini app and ask: “Was this created with Google AI?” or “Is this AI-generated?”
Gemini will determine whether the SynthID watermark is present and provide additional context about the image you’re investigating online.
The Rise of Hyper-Realistic AI Images
It’s important to note that while Gemini can identify images generated through Google tools, it may lack the capacity to evaluate those created using other platforms, such as the recently launched Nano Banana Pro. This tool lets users create extremely lifelike images, including those of Musk and other tech figures, which have gone viral. One such image featuring Musk with tech giants like NVIDIA’s Jensen Huang and Apple’s Tim Cook has amassed nearly 9 million views on X.
Just a chill gathering with the homies pic.twitter.com/eqNWjpWcHU
— Beff – e/acc (@beffjezos) November 21, 2025
Additional depictions even include OpenAI’s Sam Altman, with the group purportedly relaxing together in a parking lot. Interestingly, in a few images, Musk is captured with a cigar. In more playful takes, the group is enjoying McDonald’s in a quirky setup with a Cybertruck in the background.
Why Verify AI-Generated Images?
Running these viral images through Gemini confirms that they all carry the SynthID watermark. If something appears too strange to be real, it’s wise to check using Gemini.
For instance, have you come across that eye-catching image of Donald Trump and Bill Clinton appearing in a questionable position? Checking it through Gemini reveals it was indeed created using Google’s AI technology. Although Gemini can’t guarantee detection for every AI image, an affirmative watermark response from the app indicates it’s not genuine.
Understanding the Implications of Fake Images
It’s vital to remain vigilant as misrepresented images flood the current social media landscape. Yet, with the launch of Gemini, Google provides a valuable tool for users to discern some of these fakes themselves. As AI technology evolves, recognizing generated content will only become more challenging. Trust your intuition; for example, would you realistically picture Musk and Altman casually hanging out in a parking lot, especially given their documented disagreements?
Though unlikely pairings can and do happen, especially when substantial interests are involved, keep your skepticism alive. You never know what creative or absurd combinations might emerge in today’s digital domain.
What are the best practices for identifying AI-generated images? Look for inconsistencies, oddities, or patronizing contexts within the image—they’re often telltale signs. Have AI images gotten remarkably better over the last year? Absolutely, advancements in technology have led to unprecedented realism in generated visuals. Don’t be surprised if these kinds of images continue to pop up!
While fake visuals are likely to persist on social media, being equipped with tools like Google’s Gemini can help you sift through the noise. Stay informed, stay curious, and explore more insights on this topic by visiting Moyens I/O (https://www.moyens.net).