Google has announced that its world-leading search bar will now feature a generative technology AI if you live in the United States. Called “Google Search Generative Experience,” or SGE for short, rollouts for it began on the morning of May 25. Not only that, but Google Search users will also get access to Google’s “Search Labs” too. But you’ll need to sign up for a waiting list to be one of the first users of the new services.
Recently unveiled at Google I/O 2023, Google SGE is an innovative integration of conversational AI into the traditional search experience. If you’ve ever used Bing AI, you’ll find that Google’s product is familiar, but it does have its own unique properties too.
According to a preview on Engadget, Google’s AI-powered search still utilizes the same input bar as before, rather than a separate chatbot field like Bing. However, the generative AI results now appear in a shaded section beneath the search bar (but above sponsored results) and above the standard web results. A button on the top right of the AI results allows users to expand the snapshot, adding cards that display sourced articles. Also, users can ask follow-up questions by simply tapping a button below the results.
Google describes the snapshot as “key information to consider, with links to dig deeper.” Imagine a slice of Bard that has been integrated, relatively seamlessly, into the Google search you’re already familiar with.
“This experiment is our first step in adding generative technology AI to Search, and we’ll be making many updates and improvements over time. As we continue to reimagine how we can make it even more natural and intuitive to find what you’re looking for, we’re excited for you to test out these new capabilities and share feedback along the way,” says Google.
As previously mentioned, Google is also expanding access to its “Search Labs,” which now include “Code Tips” and “Add to Sheets” functions. Again, like its generative AI, these are currently only available in the US.
“Code Tips” uses large language models to provide guidance for more efficient and effective coding. This feature allows aspiring developers to ask questions about programming languages like C, C++, Go, Java, JavaScript, Kotlin, Python, and TypeScript, as well as tools like Docker, Git, shells, and other algorithms. “Add to Sheets,” on the other hand, allows users to directly insert search results into Google’s spreadsheet application. Simply tapping on the Sheets icon next to a search result displays a list of recent documents, from which users can select the one they want to attach the result to.
Pretty neat, we must say.
To join the “Search Labs” waitlist, simply click on the Labs icon (represented by a beaker symbol) on a new tab while using Chrome on a desktop or within the Google search app on Android or iOS. It’s important to note that the timeline and scope of availability have not been disclosed by the company, so for those not in the US, you’ll just have to wait a little longer.
