Google Plans To Introduce Charges For AI-Driven Search Engine

Tech giant Google is planning to introduce charges for enhanced features on its generative AI-driven search engine, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday.

The report suggests that the tech giant is exploring various options, including integrating AI-driven search functionalities into its premium subscription services. These services, which currently grant access to the new Gemini AI assistant in Gmail and Docs, may soon incorporate advanced search capabilities for subscribers

This move would represent a departure for Google, as it would be the first time the company has considered placing any of its core products behind a paywall.

The motivation behind this decision seems to be Google’s desire to establish a stronger presence in the rapidly evolving AI sector.

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Its traditional search engine would remain free of charge and ads would continue to appear alongside search results even for subscribers, the report added.

The company intends to continue expanding its premium offerings and services across various platforms, as it has done previously.

“We’re not working on or considering an ad-free search experience. As we’ve done many times before, we’ll continue to build new premium capabilities and services to enhance our subscription offerings across Google,” the company told Reuters in an emailed statement.

Google, renowned for its pioneering role in foundational AI technology, faces competition from prominent industry players like OpenAI (the creator of ChatGPT) and Microsoft.

Reuters