In a very big move, Google has introduced AI into its core search product. It’s rolling out first in a limited fashion, using their Search Labs area. They’re calling the implementation Search Generative Experience (SGE).
The introduction of generative AI aims to enhance the search experience, making it faster and easier for users to find the information they need.
With generative AI, Google Search can now take on more of the work involved in searching. When users pose complex questions, the AI-powered system breaks them down into smaller parts and presents a snapshot of key information to consider. It also offers suggested next steps, allowing users to delve deeper into the topic with follow-up questions. The conversational mode enables a seamless exploration experience, with context carried over from one question to another.
Shopping is another area that benefits from generative AI in Search. When users search for a product, they receive a comprehensive snapshot that includes relevant factors to consider, product descriptions, reviews, ratings, prices, and images. Google’s Shopping Graph, with its extensive collection of over 35 billion product listings, forms the foundation for this shopping experience, providing up-to-date and reliable information.
In addition to providing accurate and relevant information, Google is committed to featuring a wide range of voices and sources in its search results. The goal is to offer diverse perspectives and help users make informed decisions. Advertisements will continue to appear in dedicated slots on the search page, ensuring that relevant products and services reach the users. Google maintains its dedication to ads transparency and ensures that ads are distinguishable from organic search results.
Recognizing the limitations of generative AI, Google is taking a responsible and deliberate approach to its implementation. The company has trained the models to uphold the high-quality standards of Google Search and will continue to make improvements over time. Additionally, Google has implemented safeguards, such as limiting the types of queries where generative AI capabilities will appear. Users are encouraged to evaluate the information themselves by exploring corroborating sources and delving deeper into the search results.
To introduce and refine these generative AI capabilities, Google is launching an experiment called Search Labs. The initial offering, called Search Generative Experience (SGE), will be available on Chrome desktop and the Google App (Android and iOS) in the U.S., with English as the primary language. This experimental phase allows Google to gather feedback and further enhance the search experience.
With the integration of AI into its search engine, Google aims to revolutionize how users interact with information, making search more efficient, insightful, and tailored to individual needs. The power of generative AI brings forth a new era of search, transforming the way users access and make sense of the vast amount of information available on the web.