The article discusses the potential impact of the Search Generative Experience (SGE) on Google’s Search business model. Google CEO Sundar Pichai is confident that the SGE will not disrupt the company’s core objective of connecting users with information on the web. However, the article raises concerns about Google’s lack of transparency in sharing data related to AI-generated answers, click-through rates, and advertising performance. Additionally, the distinction between sponsored and organic content in SGE results adds further confusion.

Pichai emphasizes that Google’s goal remains helping users find the best information online, including commercial information through ads. He compares the current shift towards generative AI in search to the transition from desktop to mobile, expressing confidence that Google will adapt successfully. The article also mentions the community’s worry about Google’s featured snippets stealing traffic and the recent addition of website links to SGE results.

Pichai dismisses Microsoft’s Bing and their use of ChatGPT, comparing it to the performance of virtual assistants like Alexa and Siri. He states that Google has been considering how to incorporate generative AI into search since late last year and believes that it will be crucial in the long run. The timing of OpenAI’s launch of ChatGPT in late November 2022 is mentioned as a potential factor influencing Google’s efforts in this area.

The article briefly touches on Pichai’s limited comments on the antitrust trial, where he emphasizes innovation without providing further details. Overall, the piece raises questions about Google’s transparency and the potential implications of the SGE on the company’s search business model.