Google I/O 2024 announced the integration of generative AI in Google Search, powered by a new Gemini model. This model enhances Google Search with multi-step reasoning, planning, and multimodality, enabling it to perform complex tasks.
One of the key features is AI Overviews, which provide quick, comprehensive answers to user queries. AI Overviews have been tested in Search Labs and have been used billions of times. They will be rolled out to all U.S. users, with other countries to follow. The feature is expected to reach over a billion people by the end of the year.
AI Overviews will soon allow users to adjust the language complexity and detail level. The Gemini model's multi-step reasoning capabilities will enable AI Overviews to handle increasingly complex questions. For instance, users can ask for the best yoga or pilates studios in a specific location, including details on introductory offers and walking time from a particular point.
Google Search will also incorporate planning capabilities, including meal and vacation planning. Users can request customized plans, such as a three-day meal plan for a group, and make adjustments as needed. These plans can be exported to Google Docs or Gmail.
The AI will also organize search results pages, categorizing results under AI-generated headlines for easy exploration. This feature will initially be available for dining and recipes, with more categories to follow.
Advancements in video understanding will allow users to ask questions using video, further enhancing the search experience. This feature will initially be available to Search Labs users in the U.S., with plans to expand to more regions.
In summary, Google is leveraging the Gemini model's advanced capabilities to reimagine Google Search, aiming to simplify searching, researching, planning, and brainstorming for users.
