In an effort to dispel concerns that it is losing ground to Microsoft Corp.’s Bing search, which is powered by OpenAI, Alphabet Inc.’s Google on Wednesday showed off an improved version of its core search engine that incorporates more AI into its solutions.

Google already has a chatbot called Bard that competes with ChatGPT, the OpenAI chatbot that has sparked a lot of user interest with its humanlike responses.

According to the business, conventional Google search should still be used to find and seek out information, such as finding a product to buy.

Bard is a chatbot with a character that can have conversations that seem human-like and is designed to be used for creative collaboration, such as writing software code or captions for pictures.

What Are The Google Search Updates?

The Search Generative Experience, the improved search feature, keeps the familiar search bar’s appearance and functionality on Google’s home page.

The difference is in the responses: if the new Google determines that generative AI can be used to respond to a query, the AI-generated response will appear at the top of the results page. The standard Web links are still available below.

According to a test for Reuters earlier this week, a search for “weather San Francisco” will, as usual, direct a user to an eight-day forecast, but a query asking what to dress in the California metropolis generates a lengthy response produced by AI.

“You should bring layers, including a short-sleeved shirt and a light sweater or jacket for the day,” the result stated, including links to websites where it gleaned such advice.

Users will also get access to a brand-new “conversational mode,” which works similarly to Bard and ChatGPT in that it keeps track of the user’s previous inquiries to make it simpler for users to ask follow-up queries.

However, the business emphasises that conversational mode is merely meant to improve search results and is not intended to be a chatbot with a personality. For instance, unlike Bard and ChatGPT, it will never use the “I” statement in its responses.

Are You Able To Now Try The New Google Search?

Still not. The Search Generative Experience will be made available to US users in the upcoming weeks via a wait list. During the trial period, Google will evaluate the value, timeliness, and cost of search results.

Can You Now Try Bard?

Bard is already accessible without a wait list in 180 countries and territories, according to the business, which also wants to provide support for 40 additional languages.

(Adapted from Reuters.com)