In May, Google introduced AI Overviews in Search across the U.S., but the results have been less than stellar.
The feature gained notoriety for bizarre suggestions, like advising users to eat rocks or put glue on pizza. Despite the rocky start, Google has decided to expand AI Overviews to six more countries: the UK, India, Japan, Indonesia, Mexico, and Brazil, with support for local languages in each region.
The decision to replace the previous, more reliable non-AI overviews with this AI-branded feature has raised eyebrows. Many question the wisdom behind prioritizing AI integration over usability. However, Google seems undeterred, driven by the need to incorporate AI into every facet of its operations.
Despite the AI Overviews’ tendency to “hallucinate” and confuse satire with reality, Google claims it has seen increased engagement, particularly among younger users aged 18-24. The tech giant reports that users prefer the AI-enhanced search experience and find the results more helpful, although accuracy appears to be a secondary concern.
To enhance user experience, Google has introduced a right-hand link display for AI Overviews on desktop, also accessible on mobile by tapping site icons in the upper right corner. The company is testing the inclusion of links to relevant web pages within AI Overviews’ text, aiming to make it easier for users to explore topics further.
Google has also launched a new experiment in Search Labs that allows users to save specific AI Overviews for future reference. By tapping the Save button under an AI Overview, users can revisit saved overviews through their profile’s Interests page. Currently, this feature is only available in English in the U.S., and users must enroll in the “AI Overviews and more” experiment to access it.
Additionally, some AI Overviews now offer a language simplification option with a single tap. This feature could be particularly useful for those new to a topic, providing an easier way to understand complex information. While it’s a step forward, some may see this as a missed opportunity for a more creatively named feature.
Google’s push for AI Overviews, despite their mixed reception, underscores the company’s commitment to AI-driven solutions, but it remains to be seen if this expansion will be met with enthusiasm or skepticism.
