Google’s New Video Search: A Game Changer for How We Explore the Web?

• Google has launched a new video search function that lets users point their camera, ask queries vocally, and receive AI-generated search results.
• The functionality is part of Google’s larger effort to incorporate AI into search engines, improving accuracy and engagement with visual and voice enquiries.
• Google also changed its shopping results and added a competitor to Shazam, all while facing increased competition from AI-powered rivals such as OpenAI.

Google has launched a breakthrough new tool that allows users to explore the internet through video, signalling a huge shift in how we interact with search engines. The new “video search” feature allows users to aim their cameras at something, ask a question vocally, and get search results right away. The function, which will be available to Android and iPhone users internationally beginning at 1700 GMT, involves activating “AI Overviews” within the Google app, albeit it will initially only support English.

This is another step forward in Google’s continuous efforts to change online search with artificial intelligence (AI). Video search not only represents a significant advancement in AI capabilities, but it also improves how consumers find information online.

A New Era of AI-Powered Search

Imagine standing in front of a fish tank at an aquarium and wondering why the fish all swim together. Instead of typing out a long query or attempting to identify the species of fish, you can now simply point your camera, record a brief video, ask your inquiry vocally, and let Google’s AI handle the rest. The AI, driven by the powerful Gemini model, examines the video, identifies the fish, and returns relevant search results based on your query.

According to Liz Reid, Google’s head of search, this tool makes it easier for individuals to interact with the environment around them and discover answers faster. Video search combines the power of graphics and voice enquiries, making the experience more intuitive and dynamic than ever before.

Expanding AI Integration in Search

The debut of video search is the latest move in Google’s larger effort to incorporate AI into its search capabilities. Earlier this year, the internet giant debuted AI-generated results for specific search queries, but the initial deployment was met with controversy owing to several erroneous responses, like a widely reported recommendation to use “non-toxic glue” to put cheese to pizza. Google has since updated its AI algorithms, lowering errors and increasing the accuracy of its search results.

Google Lens, the company’s visual search tool, has also grown in popularity since adding the ability to ask queries about still photos. The popularity of Lens has spurred Google to enhance its capabilities, allowing users to capture films and ask questions, thereby bridging the gap between the physical world and online information.

A Competitive Edge in the Search Market

Google’s dominant position in the search market, which it controls more than 90% of globally, is under threat. One major competitor is OpenAI, which began testing SearchGPT in July, a tool that allows users to ask queries of its AI-powered chatbot for online searches. Although OpenAI’s SearchGPT is still in restricted testing, it could pose a challenge to Google’s search monopoly.

However, Google’s latest AI developments, such as video search, are a clear move to maintain its market leadership. Paolo Pescatore, an industry analyst, observes that AI is now present in practically everything we do online, with images playing an important part in user engagement. Pescatore believes that Google’s video search could help AI become more personalised and flexible to individual usage habits and preferences.

Beyond Video Search: New Features for an Improved Experience

In addition to video search, Google has implemented several other tools to improve the search experience. Shopping results have improved, with customers now receiving full evaluations and pricing information from various suppliers. This change will enable consumers to make informed purchasing selections without having to sift through many websites.

Google has also created a competitor to Apple’s Shazam, a popular music identification tool. The new function, accessible via “Circle to Search” on Android smartphones, enables users to identify music playing on a website or TV show without leaving the app they’re now using. This seamless integration illustrates Google’s dedication to improving user convenience and providing a more comprehensive search experience.

Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Search

Google’s ongoing investment in AI-powered tools marks the start of a new age in search technology. The ability to search the internet while recording a video is just one example of how artificial intelligence is making ordinary chores easier and more natural. With video search, users can now engage with the world in real-time, asking questions and receiving quick responses without having to rely on standard text searches.

While competitors such as OpenAI are making progress with AI-powered search tools, Google’s large market share and ongoing innovation keep it ahead of the pack. As AI gets more incorporated into everyday operations, we should anticipate Google to make even more significant developments shortly.