Several search enhancements were unveiled today at Google I/O.
Key updates to search include the addition of a “Perspectives” feature and the application of generative AI to improve search results.
These improvements aim to reshape the way users discover information and deepen their understanding of topics.
Transformative Generative AI
Screenshot from: blog.google/products/search/generative-ai-search/, May 2023.Google’s new generative AI capability called Search Generative Experience (SGE) is a new approach to search queries.
This technology is designed to simplify complex searches and provide important snapshots of information that are linked to deeper resources.
Google’s generative AI can answer more detailed questions, such as comparing two national parks for a family with young children and a dog, by providing relevant details and suggestions for further exploration.
SGE also enhances the online shopping experience by providing comprehensive product information, including up-to-date reviews, ratings, prices and product images.
This new shopping experience is powered by Google’s Shopping Graph, which contains over 35 billion product listings, all of which are continuously updated.
Google is aware of the known limitations of generative AI and large language models (LLMs) and has safeguards in place to ensure the quality and reliability of search results, e.g. B. Limiting the types of queries that display these functions.
The SGE feature is currently available as an experiment in Search Labs on the Chrome desktop and Google app for Android and iOS users in the US, with the UI available only in English at launch.
Diversifying the search with “perspectives”
Screenshot from: blog.google/products/search/google-search-perspectives/, May 2023.To complement its generative AI technology, Google introduces the “Perspectives” feature.
This new tool highlights long videos, images, and written posts from discussion forums, question-and-answer sites, and social media platforms in search results.
The feature aims to help users understand issues through the experiences and perspectives of others, and to add a more human touch to digital information.
For example, if a user is looking for advice on how to make friends in a new city, the Perspectives filter will show results with personal stories and tips from various online sources.
Google emphasizes that “Perspectives” will improve the quality of review content in search results by highlighting first-hand experiences or content created by people with in-depth knowledge of a topic.
Updated helpful content ranking system
As part of its focus on the quality of information, Google is updating its helpful content system to better understand content from a personal or expert perspective, helping to uncover more of those “hidden gems” in search.
For the latest on Google’s helpful content system, check out this report by SEJ’s Roger Montti.
Today’s updates from Google, powered by advances in AI, represent an advance in search engine technology, merging AI-powered insights with diverse human perspectives.
Sign up for the Google Search Labs waitlist here.
Featured image: rafapress/Shutterstock
