Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, has made it clear that Google Search is on a path to evolve into a more interactive AI assistant.
During the company’s earnings call, Pichai explained how technologies like Project Astra, Gemini Deep Research, and Project Mariner could fundamentally change how people use Google Search.
While the initial rollout of AI overviews had hiccups, Google remains determined to integrate AI deeper into its core product, aiming to expand the kinds of questions and tasks Search can handle.
Key Points
Google is shifting from providing “10 blue links” to delivering AI-driven assistance.
Google plans to upgrade Search with AI features from the company’s research lab.
Project Astra, DeepMind’s multimodal AI system, can analyze live video feeds from cameras or computer screens and deliver immediate answers to queries about what the AI sees.
Gemini Deep Research, an AI agent that can automate long, in-depth research tasks, could significantly transform how many people use Google Search.
Pichai remarked that Google has a “clear sense” of potential search experiences it could develop using another of the company’s AI agents, Project Mariner. This system is designed to operate website interfaces on behalf of users, eliminating the need for direct website interaction.
Pichai sees an opportunity to add more interactive and conversational elements to Google Search.
Despite early setbacks, Google is continuing its AI ambitions in Search throughout 2025.
Key Quotes
Sundar Pichai on AI in Search: “As AI continues to expand the universe of queries that people can ask, 2025 is going to be one of the biggest years for search innovation yet.”
“I think the [Search] product will evolve even more,” said Pichai. “As you make it more easy for people to interact and ask follow-up questions, etc., I think we have an opportunity to drive further growth.”
“You can imagine the future with Project Astra,” said Pichai when asked about the future of AI and Search.
“You are really dramatically expanding the types of use cases for which Search can work — things which don’t always get answered instantaneously, but can take some time to answer,” said Pichai. “Those are all areas of exploration, and you will see us putting new experiences in front of users through the course of 2025.”
Implications
For Users: Search could become more like a personal assistant, helping with everything from quick answers to long research projects.
For Businesses: Sites that rely on Google’s traffic may see shifts in user behavior as more queries are answered directly within Search.
For Advertisers: As AI-driven responses evolve, the structure and placement of ads within Search could change dramatically.
For the Future of AI: Google’s commitment to embedding AI into Search sets a high bar for the industry, signaling that large-scale AI adoption in consumer products is here to stay.
