Google experiments with AI-only Search
Google has launched an experimental “AI Mode” for its search engine, completely replacing the familiar “10 blue links” with an AI-generated summary. This radical shift is available to Google One AI Premium subscribers.
Read: Apple launches new M3-powered iPad Air with AI features
Users can activate “AI Mode” on any search results page by clicking a dedicated tab, alongside options like Images and Maps. “Power users want AI responses for more searches,” explains Robby Stein, Google’s VP of Product, in a blog post.
Google One AI Premium, priced at $19.99/month (approximately R430/month in South Africa), offers enhanced cloud storage and exclusive access to AI features.
This new mode expands upon Google’s existing AI Overviews, which provide summaries above traditional search results in over 100 countries. Unlike Overviews, AI Mode delivers a comprehensive summary with embedded hyperlinks to cited sources, replacing the traditional list of links entirely. A follow-up search bar allows for further inquiry.
Google states that AI Mode is powered by a custom version of its Gemini 2.0 model, designed for enhanced reasoning and handling complex queries.
See also
This move comes as Google faces increasing competition from AI-powered search alternatives, notably Microsoft-backed OpenAI’s ChatGPT. With search advertising driving the majority of Alphabet’s $350 billion 2024 revenue, integrating AI into search is a critical strategic focus, as highlighted by investment chief Ruth Porat.
However, Google’s AI-driven search is not without controversy. Education-technology company Chegg recently sued Google, alleging that AI previews diminish demand for original content and hinder publishers’ ability to compete.
Crédito: Link de origem