If you thought Google’s AI updates had wrapped up for the year, you might want to reconsider. The tech giant is gearing up to introduce a new AI-driven feature for its most recognizable product—Google Search.
Google Search to Introduce “AI Mode”
As reported by The Information, Google is working on an “AI Mode” for its search engine. This innovative feature will let users engage with a chatbot-like interface while conducting their research. You’ll be able to access this mode right from the results page after you enter your initial search query.
AI Mode will exist as a distinct tab alongside the well-known Google Search options like All, Images, News, and Shopping. In the AI section, users can expect to find related web links, similar to the All tab, but these will include conversational responses and a search bar for further inquiries, akin to what you find in the Gemini app.
Gemini vs. Google Search AI Mode
You might be asking yourself: isn’t this the functionality Gemini already offers? Currently, you can open the Gemini app on either a desktop or mobile device to ask questions. Gemini taps into the internet, allowing it to provide timely and relevant information in a conversational manner, complete with source links.
As of now, Gemini 1.5 Flash—the widely available version—has a knowledge cutoff of August 2024, according to Google’s AI Studio. Intriguingly, I’ve found that Gemini can answer questions about events from November and December 2024, complete with credible source links. This suggests that the Gemini app could be delivering similar services to what Google plans to implement in its search engine.
Ultimately, it seems the main difference might be accessibility. Google may be betting on the idea that more users will engage with their AI features if they’re conveniently integrated into the search engine they already use. The prospect of quickly toggling between an AI assistant and other functionalities, like Shopping or Flights, is undeniably attractive. For instance, if you’re discussing travel plans with the AI, you could easily switch over to find the best flight options or purchase necessary travel gear.
Whether this new feature is a response to OpenAI’s recent launch of a ChatGPT-like search function remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: Google is determined to maintain its leadership in the search engine space, which has become synonymous with its name. They definitely don’t want a scenario where people start saying “ChatGPT it” instead of “Google it.”
