Top 5 Epic AI Marketing Fails of 2024—What NOT to do in the New Year

As 2024 comes to a close, let’s take a fun (and insightful) look back at some of the year’s most unforgettable AI marketing mishaps. While they might make us cringe, they’re more than just cautionary tales—they’re valuable lessons in accountability, brand alignment, and best practices when integrating technology. After all, there’s no better way to step into the new year than by learning what not to do!

1. Google’s AI Controversy

Google’s Gemini AI faced backlash for generating historically inaccurate and offensive images, including depictions of people of color as Nazi soldiers. This incident highlighted the risks of poorly calibrated AI systems and the importance of context in marketing tools.

2. The Willy Wonka Event Debacle

House of Illuminati used AI-generated visuals to market a children’s “Willy’s Chocolate Experience,” only for attendees to find an underwhelming and sparsely decorated warehouse. This incident served as a cautionary tale about setting realistic expectations and ensuring marketing aligns with the actual product.

3. Air Canada’s Chatbot Misinformation

Air Canada lost a court case after its chatbot misinformed a customer about bereavement discounts, conflicting with company policy. The company’s attempt to blame the chatbot rather than take responsibility marked a pivotal moment in legal accountability for AI.

4. Kyte Baby’s PR Nightmare

Kyte Baby, a brand known for its family-friendly image, faced severe backlash when it denied a remote work request from an employee caring for a newborn in the NICU. Their misaligned actions with their values led to a boycott and long-term reputational damage​.

5. Microsoft AI’s Violent Imagery Issue

Microsoft faced criticism after its Bing AI image generator created violent and offensive content, demonstrating the importance of robust moderation and ethical boundaries in AI-driven creative tools​.

Closing Thoughts

We can laugh at these mishaps now, and thank goodness we weren’t the ones behind them! Each blunder is a reminder of the critical lessons in marketing and branding: staying accountable, aligning actions with core values, and integrating technology thoughtfully to avoid the unexpected. These incidents illustrate how easily a brand’s reputation can be jeopardized without proper oversight and strategy. 

At Jennergy, we specialize in creating authentic brand experiences. Through innovative, data-driven marketing campaigns, we help our clients align with their brand’s values while leveraging the latest tools responsibly. Let’s work together to ensure your 2025 initiatives inspire trust and innovation. Reach out to explore how we can help you avoid these pitfalls and achieve success in the New Year!