Google is expanding its search capabilities by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its image search function. Although Google’s image search function is widely used, users do not always find exactly what they are looking for. So to improve it, Google has begun incorporating AI-generated images into its search bar, similar to Bing’s Dall-E 3. Users can specify the type and content of the images they want, and the Search Generative Experience, or SBU, returns four matching results. These results can be downloaded as PNG files or modified by customizing the search query. The basis for this function is Google’s in-house text-to-image model Imagen.
Against the backdrop of potential risks of abuse, Google has decided to restrict access to this function to users aged 18 and older. In addition, strict filtering criteria have been implemented to prevent the creation of potentially harmful or misleading images. Images containing photo-realistic faces and prompts featuring celebrities are also blocked. To further improve security, metadata and invisible watermarks have been integrated into the generated images.
In parallel, the SBU can now also be used as a writing assistant, allowing users to create custom text drafts. Users can determine the length and language style of the texts, allowing both informal and formal texts to be created. The generated drafts can then be exported directly to Google Workspace apps such as Gmail or Google Docs.
Both features – the image generation and writing wizard – are currently in closed beta and can only be used via Google Search Labs. Google has set up a feedback channel for users to report any issues or concerns they may have with the new tools. Interested users can join a waiting list to test the features. “We believe generative AI in search can help spark inspiration and help you get more done,” Hema Budaraju, senior director of product management at Google, said in a blog post about the new features.
