There is a lot of hype surrounding artificial intelligence, especially generative AI. Chatbots have captured the imagination of people.
The issue is sifting through the hype and rhetoric to figure out what is going on. This is not easy but is something that, if done carefully, can at least peel back the layers.
When we look at the Internet of today, one of the dominating figures is Google. It basically controls the search market. By extension, it is the force behind SEO.
So what is the future of these in a world where generative AI could potentially be taking over?
We look into this.
Image generated by Ideomgram
Google Search Dead?
There is no doubt that Google build a data mine. Nobody as more Internet data than that company. Over the last 2 decades, it inserted itself everyone online. Many website use the analytics to better optimize their sites. Of course, in doing so, they keep feeding the beast.
Has the time come where the game is changing?
My answer is that we definitely are going to see this. However, it might not be as you expect.
Search is becoming fragmented. This is another term for decentralized. We are starting to see sites take it upon themselves to handle this.
What does this mean?
Amazon and Walmart are two sites with extensive search features. Not only does this allow shoppers to move around but it will also link people to the relevant information regarding the products. This means people can conduct a search without leaving those sites.
This is a major blow to Google. If this practice spreads, it will provide more power to the individual platforms. Consider what some of the other larger players could do.
For this reason, search, as we know it will be in decline. We are going to see enhanced search capabilities built right into website and platforms, removing the need to switch to Google.
AI Affecting Search
Of course, the question of the chatbots remains.
While many conclude this is a certainly, it is not clear. The idea of search is something that goes against what generative AI is about. Also, the question of what search is being conducted.
Many utilize Google to do research. People are not looking for a website (or product). Instead, they want information.
Here is where we see chatbots taking a lot away from Google. If I can use a chatbot and converse with an entity that was trained on most of the information on the Internet, then I will get the answers I am looking. Certainly, some might be incorrect and some verification is required. Nevertheless, there is no need to go through dozens of websites suggested by Google search.
This can change the entire structure of information. Google is old school Internet, using the ability to link data with hyperlink technology. This was, after all, what the Internet was founded upon.
AI changes this with a new database scheme that "links" data in a different manner. The goal is to be able to generate the answers that are sought as opposed to simply providing a webpage that contains the information.
The difference should now be evident.
Chatbots are meant to be chatted with. Think of it like asking the smartest person you know (times 100K) questions about anything. Consider the ability to "talk" to this being in conversational form.
For the time being, it is a bit limited but this is going to expand with each new generation of training.
The next generation is not search as we know it.
Will chatbots be the one to replace this? Time will tell.