Google, the tech giant that is linked with internet search, is allegedly thinking about making a big change to how it does business. There are several stories saying that the company is thinking about charging users to use AI-powered search features that are better. This possible move is in answer to the rising costs of using AI for search.
What’s at Risk?
If the changes go through, it could be a big moment for Google. The search engine has been free for users since it started in 1996. Its major source of income comes from ads. But if Google goes through with this plan, it will be the first time the company charges to use its main search engine.
The AI-powered parts
So, what are these things that might cost money that are driven by AI? What we know:
Generative AI Search: Google has been testing generative AI in search. This technology aims to give results that are more complex and take into account the situation. Imagine getting full answers to your questions along with links to web pages. This function makes the user experience better, but it also needs more computer power.
Image Making: Google’s AI could make pictures that are related to what you’re searching for. AI-generated images could help you find places to visit or science ideas, no matter what you’re looking for.
Plans for trips: Going on a trip? Google’s AI could help you make custom plans based on your likes, dislikes, and the choices you have.
The Subscription Model Reports say that Google might think about adding these AI-powered search features to its current paid subscription services. The Gemini AI helper is already built into these services and can be used in Gmail and Google Docs. Google has made it clear that its free search engine will not be harmed, and ads will still show up even for paid users.
The Big Picture
In the past few years, the tech world has changed a lot. With the release of free AI apps like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard (now called Gemini), the way we use technology has changed. Users now expect answers that are more clever and tailored to them.
Google’s possible move shows how committed the company is to new ideas. People might be able to pay for AI-enhanced search features soon, which could lead to new opportunities for both the company and its users.
In conclusion
As Google keeps working to improve its AI search projects, we’ll be very interested in any public news. The company says that it is “not working on or considering” ad-free search at this time. But the tech world is always changing, so it may happen again.
Stay tuned for more as this story develops.
