In a significant leap forward for its search technology, Google announced on Tuesday the integration of advanced artificial intelligence into its iconic search bar. This enhancement, unveiled during the annual Google I/O conference for software developers, allows for more conversational and complex queries, reminiscent of human-to-human interaction. At the core of this innovation is Google’s new AI model, Gemini 3.5, which facilitates these improvements and encourages direct interaction with Google’s chatbot. This marks one of the most substantial transformations in Google Search’s nearly 30-year history, according to Elizabeth Reid, who leads the product.
This development comes as Google Search queries hit an all-time high last month, with engagement in the search’s “AI Mode”—a feature introduced a year ago—showing significant growth. This mode allows users to interact with a Gemini-powered bot rather than sifting through a list of links. Google’s aim, as articulated by Josh Woodward, head of the flagship AI’s development, is to create a “universal assistant” that is personal, proactive, and persistent. Despite its ambition, the Gemini app currently serves 900 million monthly users, trailing behind ChatGPT’s 900 million weekly users. The new features will be available on both desktop and mobile versions globally, allowing users to still access the traditional list of links if they prefer.
In addition to the search enhancements, Google is venturing back into the realm of smart eyewear, over a decade after its initial attempt with Google Glass. Partnering with Samsung and eyewear brands Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, Google introduced “intelligent eyewear” that will hit the market this fall. These glasses, capable of responding to voice commands and capturing photos or videos, mark a renewed effort to enter the augmented-reality space, an area also pursued by Meta with its Ray-Ban Meta glasses since 2021.
Google’s innovative strides extend to its AI Pro and Ultra subscribers, who will gain access to “information agents.” These autonomous AI bots are designed to conduct in-depth research, provide summaries, and create action plans. Furthermore, the “generative user interface” will enable the creation of tailored visuals and interactive elements, such as dashboards, based on user requests. The introduction of Gemini Spark, another feature, will leverage data from Google services like Gmail and Google Calendar to assist users in tasks such as research, shopping, and planning.
This renewed focus on AI and smart technology reflects a broader industry trend toward integrating artificial intelligence into everyday consumer products. Google’s endeavors in this space, including a second model of smart glasses with an in-lens display dubbed Project Aura, highlight a strategic shift towards embracing AI-driven innovations, potentially reshaping consumer interaction with technology.