le tests new search design that uses AI to answer queries instead of organic results

Google is said to have begun testing a new desktop search page design, which integrates chat technology.

We knew Google wanted to add chatbot capabilities to search in the coming year. CNBC has released more information about the design of an experimental search page.

Google’s alternative search page. Google replaced the I’m Feeling Lucky icon under the search bar by five prompts to answer potential questions. According to the report, there was also a small chat logo” at the bottom of the search bar.

This description gives us a rough idea of how it would look.

Google’s alternative SERP. This would push Google’s organic search results down the page. CNBC explained this:

The search results will show a gray bubble under the search bar when a question has been entered. This gives more human-like answers than standard search results. The page also suggests other questions that could be related to the original one. It shows search results as well as links and headlines.

This experimental design is new to me.

Based on the way this was described, it might look similar to SERPs that have a featured snippet, followed by People often ask and then organic results. You might ask, “What is cheese made from?”

You could also imagine the “gray balloon” as the featured snippet explaining the making of cheese (with an answer generated and given to Google AI rather than awarded to the source of this featured snippet here), with the “follow up questions” replacing PAA.

Why we care. This could be how chatbot-style Google desktop searches will look later in the year. Although it isn’t a major departure from current Google desktop design, it would impact visibility and traffic for websites. You might have thought Google was stealing traffic and clicks from you before.

What Google says. According a Google spokesperson.

• “We have been focusing on AI development and deployment to improve people’s lives for a long time. AI is fundamental and transformative technology. It is extremely useful for individuals, businesses, and communities. As our AI Principles outline we must also consider the wider societal impact these innovations could have. We are continuing to use our AI technology internally to ensure it is safe and useful. We look forward to sharing more of our experiences with the public.

Dig deeper. CNBC’s Jennifer Elias reports that ChatGPT is being tested by employees. Also, Google is testing ChatGPT’s version using its LaMDA technology, which includes answers based upon recent events. (This is something ChatGPT cannot do at the moment).

Search Engine land – The post Google tests new search design with AI responses over organic results appeared as a first on Search Engine.