– Google is using AI to provide natural language responses to search queries through its Search Generative Experience (SGE)
– SGE was launched in May 2023 as an opt-in experiment, but Google is now testing it with a small subset of U.S. users without opting in
– The search results with SGE will include an AI-generated overview or answer before the traditional list of links, aimed at improving user experience
Google has started using artificial intelligence to answer user queries instead of just providing links, as part of its Search Generative Experience (SGE). SGE was launched as an opt-in experiment last year and has now expanded to over 120 countries. Google’s AI models provide natural language responses to search queries in a Gemini-style format. Some U.S. users will now receive SGE results even without opting in, possibly in response to competition from other AI-powered search engines.
Launched in 2023, SGE allows Google to test generative AI tools and models on search results without impacting its core business. Results include summaries, bullet points, citations, and links to more information. The integration of SGE into the main search interface suggests Google is preparing to make this service more widely available. The biggest change in search results will be the AI-generated overview or answer appearing before website snippets.
Only a small subset of U.S. users will receive SGE results without opting in, as Google tests the feature on main interface users for complex queries. Google is confident that SGE will improve the user experience and plans to gather feedback from a variety of searchers. The focus is on providing a better search experience through AI-generated responses, rather than just a list of links. It may be some time before SGE is fully integrated, but Google is actively testing different approaches and seeking input from a range of users.