Google wants Search to be more like an AI assistant in 2025

Google Search is undergoing a major transformation, with artificial intelligence at its core. During the company’s earnings call on Tuesday, CEO Sundar Pichai described this shift as a “journey” and hinted at even bigger changes ahead.

The first phase of this evolution was the introduction of AI Overviews, a controversial but significant departure from traditional search results. However, Pichai made it clear that this was only the beginning.

“As AI continues to expand the universe of queries that people can ask, 2025 is going to be one of the biggest years for search innovation yet,” Pichai stated in his opening remarks.

AI-Powered Search: The Next Phase
Throughout the call, Pichai outlined Google’s vision for integrating AI into Search, making it function more like an AI assistant rather than a simple query system. The goal is for Search to browse the web, analyze content, and deliver precise answers—moving far beyond the traditional ten blue links.

Google has been accelerating this shift ever since OpenAI’s ChatGPT disrupted the landscape in 2022. The change poses challenges for websites dependent on Google’s traffic and businesses relying on its advertising model, but the tech giant remains committed to its AI-driven future.

One key area of focus is Project Astra, DeepMind’s multimodal AI system capable of processing live video and answering real-time questions. Pichai suggested that Astra’s capabilities could be integrated into Search and even power a future pair of augmented reality smart glasses.

Another breakthrough is Gemini Deep Research, an AI agent that compiles detailed reports in minutes—automating tasks users previously performed manually through Google Search. Pichai indicated that this technology could redefine how people seek information online.

“You are really dramatically expanding the types of use cases for which Search can work – things which don’t always get answered instantaneously, but can take some time to answer,” he said.

Google is also exploring Project Mariner, an AI system that can interact with website front-ends on behalf of users, potentially reducing the need for people to visit sites themselves. Additionally, Pichai mentioned plans to make Search more conversational, allowing users to ask follow-up questions in a chatbot-style interface.

Addressing the AI Overviews Controversy
While Google is betting big on AI-powered Search, its first step—AI Overviews—faced criticism for generating inaccurate and bizarre responses. Early mishaps included recommendations to eat rocks and use glue on pizza. Google acknowledged the issues and promised improvements.

Despite these setbacks, the company is pushing forward. “I think the [Search] product will evolve even more,” Pichai said, emphasizing the opportunity for deeper interaction and user engagement.

With competition from ChatGPT intensifying, Google is not only building its own AI chatbot with Gemini but also embedding AI deeper into Search itself. As 2025 unfolds, the tech giant is set to redefine how billions of users access information online.

Source:   TechCrunch