Google introduced AI Overviews in Search in the US in May. The feature was designed to improve the search experience using artificial intelligence. However, the results so far have been disappointing. AI Overviews have made some notable mistakes, such as suggesting people eat rocks or use glue on pizza. Despite these mistakes, Google has not explained why it is replacing its old, more reliable search overviews with this new AI-powered version. The reason for this seems to be that AI is being added to everything these days, even if it doesn’t always improve usability.
AI-Powered Search Spreads Globally: Key Insights from Google’s Latest Expansion
Despite initial issues, Google announced that it will expand AI Overviews to six more countries: the United Kingdom, India, Japan, Indonesia, Mexico, and Brazil. This expansion also includes support for local languages in each region. While the U.S. launch was criticized for inaccuracies and misinformation, Google is moving forward with its AI approach. The company notes that younger users, especially those between the ages of 18 and 24, are showing higher engagement when using Search with AI Overviews. This group seems to like the AI integration, although the accuracy of the results is still a concern.
Google says users prefer the AI-powered search experience and find the results more helpful. However, the issue of accuracy, which is crucial to providing reliable information, appears to be less of a priority in Google’s messaging. The company appears to be focusing more on user engagement than ensuring the accuracy of search results. This approach could raise concerns for those who rely on search engines for reliable information.
Gizchina News of the Week
To improve the user experience, Google has introduced some new features related to AI Overviews. On desktop platforms, there is now a link display for AI Overviews on the right side. This feature can also be accessed on mobile devices by tapping on the site icons in the top right corner. It gives users an easier way to access related web pages directly from the AI Overview. Google is also testing adding links to related websites in the AI Overview text. It allows users to explore related content without leaving the search page.
Navigating Google's AI Overviews
Another new feature allows users to save specific AI Overviews for future reference. This feature is currently only available in the United States and English as part of an experiment called “AI Overviews and more” at Search Labs. Users can save an AI Overview by tapping on the new Save button that appears underneath it. Saved overviews can then be accessed by navigating to the user's Interests page via their profile icon. This feature could be useful for those looking to revisit AI-generated summaries of complex topics or track specific information over time.
Google is also testing an option to simplify the language used in some AI Overviews with a single tap. This feature aims to make information more accessible, especially for users who are new to a topic or prefer a simpler explanation. Simplifying the language could help more people understand and engage with the content, although it does highlight the need for accuracy and clarity in AI-generated summaries.
As Google continues to expand AI Overviews, the company continues to focus on increasing user engagement and satisfaction. However, challenges around AI accuracy and reliability remain. Expanding AI Overviews to new markets presents both opportunities and risks for Google as it tries to balance innovative technology with the need for trusted information. As these AI-focused features become more widely available, their impact on the overall search experience will be closely monitored by users and industry experts.