Google Directly Adds AI-Powered Image & Text Generation To Its Search Engine

To simplify and smarten how users access and utilize information within its search engine, Google has announced it will incorporate generative artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities into its platform beginning this week.

One noteworthy feature of this upgrade is the ability to create images using generative AI—catering to those moments when users have a specific image in mind but can’t find it through traditional searches.

For instance, if one plans on crafting a card for a friend who loves cooking and adores capybaras, they can enter a description reading: “draw a picture of a capybara wearing a chef's hat and cooking breakfast.”

Image via Google

Google Search will then provide up to four generated images in the results. Users can tap on these images to learn more about how generative AI has expanded their initial query with descriptive details while further editing the image descriptions to fine-tune their vision.

Furthermore, for those who have opted into the technology giant’s generative AI-powered Search experience (SGE) experiment, there’s even the option to create AI-generated images directly in Google Images.

This feature is designed to inspire users during the process of seeking creative ideas, such as when one looks up keywords and phrases such as “minimalist Halloween table settings” or “spooky dog house ideas.”

Image via Google

While this AI-driven technology opens up exciting possibilities, it’s no surprise the company is mindful of the need for responsible usage. To ensure the ethical use of generative AI, safeguards have been implemented to prevent the creation of unsavory images.

This includes blocking harmful or misleading content and labeling every image created with metadata and embedded watermarks that will indicate the pictures were generated by AI. Only those 18 and above will be granted access to the tool.

In addition to image generation, Google is introducing another helpful feature: written drafts within SGE. When conducting lengthy searches that involve gathering information and ideas, users can now ask SGE to create a written draft.

For example, when researching home improvement projects, like converting your garage into a home office, one can request for SGE to “write a note to a contractor asking for a quote to turn my garage into a home office.”

Once the draft is generated, users have the flexibility to shorten it or adjust the tone to suit their preferences.

Importantly, this drafted content can be easily exported to Google Docs or Gmail, ensuring a seamless transition for further personalization.

Currently, these features will only be available in English in the United States to SGE users. In the meantime, Google is actively working on an upcoming tool called “about this image,” which will help users assess the context and credibility of images, providing valuable insights into their origins and usage.

[via TechCrunch and Search Engine Land, images via Google]