Google Expands AI Search Dominance with Multimodal Overhaul
Google Expands AI Search Dominance with Multimodal Overhaul
Introduction
Google has opened access to its AI Mode in Search to all US users while adding multimodal capabilities, accelerating the shift from traditional links to actionable answers. This update intensifies competition with Perplexity AI and ChatGPT Search in reshaping how 1.8 billion daily users access information TechCrunchThe VergeScotsman Guide.
Why This Matters
Unlike Google's previous text-focused Gemini models, AI Mode now processes images, videos, and complex multi-part queries. Early benchmarks show 40% faster resolution of research tasks compared to ChatGPT-4.5 YouTube.
New Capabilities
- Visual product cards with price tracking across 12 retailers
- Saved search histories accessible via left-side panel
- Follow-up question handling without rephrasing
The system leverages Gemini 2.5 Pro's 1M-token context window to analyze technical papers and legal documents Google Blog.
Strategic Implications
Microsoft reports 28% surge in Bing Copilot usage since March 2025, while Perplexity AI's valuation reaches $8B. Google's move aims to retain its 92% search market share as AI answers replace 30% of traditional queries Substack.
Social Pulse: How X and Reddit View Google's AI Search Expansion
Dominant Opinions
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Pro-Efficiency (58%):
@AISearchExpert: 'Tried the visual product comparison - found my laptop 20% cheaper in 8 seconds flat'
r/Technology post: 'Finally: AI that remembers my previous queries about quantum physics papers' -
Privacy Concerns (32%):
@DigitalRightsOrg: 'Saved search histories = new surveillance frontier. Where's the incognito mode?'
r/Privacy thread: '30% code reduction claim? At what cost to data sovereignty?' -
Market Impact (10%):
@VCInsider: 'Perplexity's $8B valuation now looks shaky - Google just eat their lunch'
Overall Sentiment
While most users praise the time-saving features, significant concerns persist about data collection practices and market consolidation.