Google began publishing artificial intelligence (AI) search results in the UK last year, following a trial in the US. Initially, only a small number of users entering the UK will see ‘generic’ AI-generated search results.
While Google’s AI search results are a significant technological advancement, they have raised concerns among publishers. Some worry that the comprehensive results provided by AI could satisfy users’ queries without them needing to visit their websites. This could potentially lead to a decrease in site visits, as AI-generated results may contain fewer links and ads.
Google calls the feature “Search Experience”—it has been available in the US for almost a year, but only for users who sign up through Google Labs. It said the UK trial would include a “small portion” of the UK search journey selected from logged-in users. The front page of the Financial Times claims that the company is considering offering subscriptions to some AI searches in the future.
Google denied that it was “developing or considering a free search experience.” Hema Budaraju, who helps power Google’s AI-powered search engine, told the BBC it will continue to show links and ads in new search results. He said continuing to drive traffic to creators is “primary” and said AI-powered search results “really show more connections to more markets.” “The evidence was there,” he said, adding that users were clicking on additional resources.
