Google Is Changing Search Forever with Generative AI

Google unveiled a variety of products and services in I/O 2023, but one of the most notable is the integration of generative AI into its popular search engine. 

Starting with a new feature called “Search Generative Experience” (SGE) in Search Labs, users can ask complex questions and receive more context and information regarding a specific topic.  

“Let’s take a question like “what's better for a family with kids under 3 and a dog, bryce canyon or arches. Normally, you might break this one question down into smaller ones, sort through the vast information available, and start to piece things together yourself,” the company explained in a press release. 

After making a search, the new search engine will then provide the user with an “AI Snapshot” containing key information and additional links on the topic. 

Below this, Google Search will suggest next steps and ask follow-up questions that can bring users to a conversational mode, where they can get more in-depth with their inquiries. 

“With generative AI, Search can do some of that heavy lifting for you,” the company added. 

Google is also changing the game for eCommerce marketing by upgrading Search to make online shopping faster and easier. Powering Google’s Shopping Graph with AI, users can now search for a product and receive comprehensive factors to consider when buying the product, its prices, descriptions, as well as its latest reviews and ratings. 

Perspectives Brings Users Closer to Real Opinions 

The tech giant is also introducing a new AI-powered feature called “Perspectives” which helps users find opinions from real people. Once the Perspective filter located on top of the search results is tapped, users will find images, long and short-form videos, and written posts from forums, Q&A sites and social media platforms.  

“We’ll also show more details about the creators of this content, such as their name, profile photo or information about the popularity of their content,” the company wrote.  

Liz Reid, Vice President of Search at Google, explained that often, its younger users want to hear from other people. “They don’t just want to hear from institutions or big brands. So how do we make that easy for people to access?” she added. 

Users can sign up for Search Labs to try SGE which will be available in the coming weeks on Chrome desktop and the Google App in the U.S.  

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