Google has introduced a new artificial intelligence feature that adds chatbot-like functions directly into its search engine. The update aims to give users a dialogue-style experience when searching, making it feel more like talking to an expert. The new “AI Mode” started rolling out in the United States on Tuesday and is integrated within the regular Google search bar. This announcement came during Google’s annual developer event in Mountain View, California. The company hopes this will help it stay ahead in web search as AI platforms like ChatGPT gain popularity.
Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai described the launch as a major step in AI technology. The tool lets users ask longer, more detailed questions and provides stronger reasoning in answers. The Gemini chatbot is now part of Google’s search, marking a key development in their AI strategy. Google also revealed plans to offer a subscription-based AI service for users in the future.
Google is also returning to the smart glasses market with new augmented reality eyewear developed alongside Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. The glasses will feature a camera, microphone, and built-in speakers. This effort revives Google’s interest in smart glasses after the earlier Google Glass failed more than ten years ago. The new glasses will compete with Meta’s AI-powered Ray-Ban glasses. Google expects to begin developing this hardware later this year.
Industry experts have noted that deeper AI integration in search was expected. The new chatbot should reduce the need for users to scroll through many web pages by providing more direct answers. This can make searching faster and less distracting. However, this change could affect Google’s main source of income, which comes from ads on search result pages. If users click on fewer pages, advertising revenue might decline. Some analysts warn that while Google is improving how fast it provides answers, it might also reduce the traffic that generates ad money.
This AI rollout comes at a challenging time for Google, which is currently facing legal battles in the United States over claims that it unlawfully controls the search market. A recent court ruling against the company has added pressure on its operations.
Google’s history with AI in search has had mixed results. Last year, it introduced AI Overviews that summarize answers at the top of search results. Early feedback included some odd responses, like suggestions to use glue on pizza cheese or to eat a rock daily based on geology advice. Google explained that such mistakes are rare and not typical of the overall system.
Despite these issues, the AI Overviews feature now sees 1.5 billion monthly uses in more than 200 countries. In key regions such as India and the United States, these AI summaries account for over 10 percent of search query growth. This feature has become one of the most successful additions to Google Search in recent years.
The new conversational AI feature is expected to make online searches easier and more efficient by providing clearer, faster answers to complex questions. As AI changes how people search the web, Google faces the challenge of balancing smarter search tools with its advertising-based business model.