Google outlines its big plans for the future of search | CNN Business

Google's AI-Driven Search Revolution

Google is dramatically shifting its search engine from a keyword-based system to one powered by AI digital agents. This change aims to provide more personalized and context-aware search results, adapting to users' needs, preferences, and surroundings. The new AI Mode, now broadly available in the US, breaks down queries into subtopics for more precise answers. It will leverage user search history and integrate with other Google apps like Gmail for enhanced personalization.

New Search Capabilities

Key new features include:

• Task Handling: AI Mode will handle tasks like ticket booking or restaurant reservations autonomously.
• Visual Search: Users can point their phone's camera at something and ask questions about it, furthering the capabilities of the existing Lens tool.

These features, some still in the Labs program, utilize Google's Project Mariner technology.

Competitive Landscape

This transformation is driven by increasing competition from AI-powered search engines and chatbots like ChatGPT and Perplexity. Reports of declining Google search traffic in Apple's Safari browser, although disputed by Google, highlight the pressures the company faces. Despite this, Google asserts that the updates reflect evolving user behavior and position the company for future growth in a 'proactive, agentic world.'