Google’s AI-powered chatbot, Bard, is set to challenge Open AI’s ChatGPT in the race for conversational AI supremacy. Released in February 2023, Bard initially faced some flaws that resulted in a $100 billion decrease in market value for Alphabet. However, Google quickly iterated and introduced a new version of Bard in May 2023, running on PaLM2.
Google describes Bard as a conversational AI tool that can brainstorm ideas, spark creativity, and accelerate productivity. Like ChatGPT, Bard is a generative AI algorithm capable of producing audio, code, images, and text content. Bard utilizes data from its machine-learning model and natural language processing to simulate human conversation.
One key difference between Bard and ChatGPT is the data source. While Bard’s machine learning model uses data from across the web, ChatGPT’s model was only up to date to 2021. Another distinction lies in their pricing models: Bard is free, while ChatGPT offers a subscription version called ChatGPT-4 for $20 per month.
In terms of capabilities, Bard supports over 20 programming languages and excels at explaining and debugging code. However, a test conducted by Decrypt revealed that ChatGPT is faster in generating code compared to Bard. ChatGPT-4 is being integrated into Microsoft Bing Chat, Teams, Edge, and Microsoft Office Applications, with plug-ins connecting to platforms such as Expedia, Instacart, and OpenTable.
Google is not lagging behind in the competition. In September 2023, Google announced its plans to integrate Bard with Gmail, Docs, and YouTube through Bard Extensions. This move aims to position Google as an AI-powered personal assistant, enabling users to perform various tasks seamlessly within a single conversation. Bard’s Director of Product Management, Yury Pinsky, highlighted examples such as creating a new personal statement using data from Google Drive and gathering information for a trip to the Grand Canyon.
To enhance Bard’s reliability, Google has implemented reinforcement learning techniques and introduced an updated Google It button to double-check the accuracy of Bard’s responses. When Bard provides answers with high confidence, the supporting facts will be linked to relevant articles on the web. In instances where supporting facts are unavailable, the text will be highlighted in orange.
Additionally, Bard users can now share their chats via a public link, facilitating collaboration and ideation. This feature was previously available in ChatGPT.
Open AI’s ChatGPT made a significant impact on the market and garnered immense popularity. However, Google’s Bard is determined to compete by continuously iterating and expanding its integration into various applications. As the conversational AI landscape evolves, it will be interesting to see how these AI chatbots further differentiate themselves and revolutionize how we interact with technology.
