Google AI Search vs. Bard Chatbot: Breaking Down the Differences

Alphabet Inc's Google recently unveiled an upgraded core search product, bolstering its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities to stay ahead in the search engine game. In a bid to compete with Microsoft Corp's OpenAI-powered Bing search, Google has integrated more AI into its search results. While Google already boasts the Bard chatbot, which rivals OpenAI's ChatGPT, understanding when to utilize Google and when to opt for Bard is essential. In this article, we explore the distinctions between Google's new AI search and the Bard chatbot, shedding light on when to employ each for optimal results.

Google vs. Bard: Choosing the Right Tool:

Google emphasizes that its traditional search engine remains the go-to choice for finding factual information and conducting straightforward queries, such as locating products or obtaining information.

On the other hand, Bard is designed as a chatbot with a human-like persona, tailored for creative endeavors, like generating software code or crafting captivating captions for photographs.

Google's Enhanced Search Experience:

Under the guise of the Search Generative Experience, Google's homepage retains its familiar search bar appearance. However, the key difference lies in the responses it offers. When Google's new AI senses that generative AI can effectively answer a query, it will display the AI-generated response prominently at the top of the results page. Traditional web links will still appear below.

For instance, a search for "weather San Francisco" will yield the usual eight-day forecast, while an inquiry about suitable attire for the city may generate an AI-generated response, such as "You should bring layers, including a short-sleeved shirt and a light sweater or jacket for the day." This response is supplemented with links to the sources from which the AI gleaned the advice.

Additionally, users can now engage in a "conversational mode," akin to Bard and ChatGPT. This mode retains the user's prior questions in memory, facilitating follow-up queries. It's important to note, however, that conversational mode is not intended to replicate a chatbot's personality but rather to refine search results. Consequently, responses in this mode will not include first-person pronouns, distinguishing it from Bard and ChatGPT.

Accessing the New Google Search:

While the Search Generative Experience is generating buzz, it's not immediately accessible to users. U.S. consumers can anticipate gaining access to this feature in the coming weeks via a waitlist. During this trial phase, Google will evaluate the quality, speed, and cost-effectiveness of search results to fine-tune the offering.

Bard's Availability:

In contrast, Bard is readily available without any waitlist restrictions in 180 countries and territories. Google also has plans to expand its language support to encompass 40 different languages.

In conclusion, understanding the nuances between Google's new AI search and Bard chatbot is crucial for optimizing your online searches and creative endeavors. Google excels at providing factual information, while Bard shines in generating human-like conversations and facilitating creative collaboration. As these tools continue to evolve, users will have more options than ever to enhance their online experiences.