AI Chatbot To Be Embedded In Google Search

Google is introducing a new artificial intelligence (AI) mode that more firmly embeds chatbot capabilities into its search engine, aiming to give users the experience of having a conversation with an expert.

Launch Of AI Mode In The US

The “AI Mode” was made available in the US on Tuesday, appearing as an option in Google’s search bar. This change was unveiled at the company’s annual developers conference in Mountain View, California.

Google’s Strategy To Compete With ChatGPT

This update is part of Google’s push to remain competitive against ChatGPT and other AI services, which threaten to erode Google’s dominance of online search. The company also announced plans for augmented reality glasses and a subscription AI tool.

Incorporation Of Gemini Chatbot

Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google-parent Alphabet, said the incorporation of the Gemini chatbot into search signaled a “new phase of the AI platform shift”. The AI now supports longer and more complex queries.

Google’s New AI-Powered Glasses

Google’s new AI glasses, developed with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, will feature a camera, microphone, and speakers. This effort aims to compete with Meta’s AI-powered Ray-Ban glasses. The product is expected to start building later this year.

Expert Opinions On AI Integration

Leo Gebbie, analyst at CCS Insight, says the chatbot will reduce the number of web pages users must sift through, allowing more complex questions to be asked. He notes this should save users time by interacting directly with AI tools.

Impact On Google’s Search Revenue Model

Cory Johnson from Epistrophy Capital Research points out that while Google is getting more efficient at answering questions, it is becoming less efficient at generating clicks, which is critical for its ad revenue.

Legal Challenges Facing Google

The announcement comes amid a US court battle over Google’s monopoly in search and potential changes to its business model.

Mixed Success With Previous AI Features

Google’s previous AI feature, AI Overviews, introduced last year, provides AI-generated summaries atop search results. Despite initial ridicule over odd responses, usage has grown to 1.5 billion per month globally.

AI Overviews Driving Search Growth

Pichai noted that AI Overviews are driving over 10% of growth in queries that show them in Google’s biggest markets, calling it one of the most successful launches in search in the past decade.