Google Unveils New Generative AI Search Features, But Microsoft’s ‘New Bing’ Takes the Lead
Google recently showcased its latest advancements in AI search during a live event in Paris. However, the features unveiled by Google paled in comparison to the groundbreaking new Bing announced by Microsoft the day before. Microsoft has extensively demonstrated its innovative search capabilities to the press and provided limited public access.
One of the most intriguing demos by Google focused on the use of generative AI to summarize information from the web. By inputting the question, what are the best constellations to look for while stargazing? Google’s AI-generated response highlighted key options and provided guidance on how to spot them. The aim of this feature, according to Google’s Senior Vice President, Prabhakar Raghavan, is to organize complex information and multiple viewpoints directly within search results. Users will be able to gain a holistic understanding and explore different perspectives effortlessly.
Raghavan referred to this type of response as a NORA reply, meaning no one right answer. This approach addresses a common critique of AI-generated search responses, which often tend to present a single definitive answer. Although Raghavan did not mention a specific release date for this feature, the limited information provided suggests that Google faces challenges in its search capabilities.
Despite being an AI leader and gradually integrating AI features into search over the years, Google has yet to launch a direct competitor to ChatGPT, the conversational AI model. Recently, Google announced Bard as its rival service, but it remains in closed beta testing. Google has promised wider public availability in the coming weeks.
During the event, Google briefly demonstrated Bard by asking the chatbot questions about the advantages and disadvantages of buying an electric car.
In the meantime, Microsoft has capitalized on Google’s cautious approach. The company recently unveiled new AI-assisted features for Bing and its Edge browser, including a general-purpose chatbot similar to ChatGPT. Microsoft also showcased auto-summarizing and text-writing programs as part of its innovative search offerings.
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