Google Search is currently on a transformative path towards AI, as mentioned by Google CEO Sundar Pichai during the company’s recent earnings call. The initial step in this journey was the introduction of AI overviews, marking a significant shift in how Google delivers information to its vast user base.
But this was just the beginning.
Pichai highlighted that as AI capabilities expand, the year 2025 is poised to be a pivotal moment for search innovation. He outlined Google’s strategy to integrate AI features from DeepMind, the company’s research lab, into the Search product, transforming it into an AI assistant that can scan the web for information and provide answers.
This evolution is a far cry from the traditional search system that simply offered a list of blue links.
Google has been moving in this direction for some time, especially after being caught off guard by OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022. The implications of this shift are significant for websites dependent on Google traffic and businesses advertising on Google Search.
Despite concerns from some quarters, Google is committed to advancing along this path.
Pichai also referenced Project Astra, an AI system developed by DeepMind that can interpret live video and provide real-time responses to user queries. Google envisions utilizing Project Astra beyond Search, potentially integrating it into augmented reality smart glasses.
Furthermore, Pichai mentioned Gemini Deep Research as a feature that could revolutionize how people interact with Google Search, automating tasks that users previously performed themselves.
Looking ahead, Pichai expressed a vision of expanding Search’s functionality through Project Mariner, another AI tool that could navigate websites on behalf of users.
Google aims to enhance user interactions with Search, potentially introducing features reminiscent of a chatbot interface.
Despite initial challenges faced when introducing AI overviews, Google remains steadfast in its commitment to infuse AI throughout the Search experience.
