Is Google’s AI poised to render the web obsolete?

Google, once known as the trusted guardian of the internet, is now transforming into a platform that provides its own answers to user queries rather than directing them to external websites. This shift is being further reinforced by the implementation of AI-generated responses that are set to become the standard reply for all searches in the near future.

However, there are concerns regarding the accuracy of these AI-generated responses, as these engines have been known to fabricate information. Additionally, this new approach raises existential questions for both Google and the internet as a whole. If Google is able to answer all queries within its own platform, users may no longer feel the need to visit other websites.

Industry professionals are expressing worries about this potential future, as it could have significant implications for internet content creators. Without the need to post information online, Google may struggle to generate responses for user queries. This uncertainty has left many, including journalist Charlie Warzel, pondering the future implications of this shift in Google’s search capabilities.

Despite the growing concerns, Google’s responses to questions about these changes have been vague and open to interpretation. The company’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, has provided ambiguous explanations regarding the future of Google’s search capabilities and their impact on the internet landscape.

One important aspect that has not been widely addressed is the potential impact on Google’s advertising model. The sale of sponsored links to websites is a significant source of revenue for the tech giant, and if users no longer visit external sites, this could disrupt the economic engine that drives Google’s $2 trillion business.

In conclusion, the evolution of Google’s search capabilities and the increasing reliance on AI-generated responses raise important questions about the future of the internet. As Google continues to prioritize providing direct answers within its platform, the implications for users, web publishers, and the broader online ecosystem remain uncertain and potentially disruptive. It is clear that further exploration and analysis are needed to understand the full extent of these changes and their potential consequences.

Article Source
https://www.businessinsider.com/google-ai-answers-search-advertising-end-of-web-2024-5