Google Search is undergoing a major transformation in order to align with Alphabet-owned Google’s vision of artificial intelligence. Prompted by competition from AI startups like ChatGPT, the company’s core product is being reorganized, personalized, and summarized by AI.
At Google’s annual I/O developer conference, Liz Reid showcased these changes as the new head of Google search. Embracing AI as a fundamental component of nearly every product, CEO Sundar Pichai emphasized Google’s commitment to accelerating this shift.
The updates to Google Search have been in development for some time, with the company experimenting with new features in its Search Labs, including the Search Generative Experience. Now, Google is integrating these experimental features into its core search product.
Amidst criticism of a diminished search experience and competition from Microsoft and OpenAI, as well as smaller startups, Google is rolling out new search features powered by a customized version of its Gemini AI model. These features include AI-generated summaries at the top of search results, providing users with more concise and relevant information.
For example, in response to a query about the best places to see the northern lights, Google will provide authoritative text highlighting locations in the Arctic Circle with minimal light pollution, along with additional information about other potential viewing spots. This shift towards AI-driven search capabilities aims to make search results more efficient and personalized for users.
