Google Expands Generative AI Search to Teens with Enhanced Contextual Features
On Thursday, Google announced that it is officially opening its generative AI search experience to teenagers. This new initiative includes a feature designed to add context to the content users see, as well as updated training for its AI model to better identify false or inappropriate queries.
The AI-enhanced search experience, known as SGE (Search Generative Experience), introduces a conversational mode in Google Search, enabling users to engage with the search engine in a more interactive way.
Starting this week, U.S. teens aged 13 to 17 who have a Google Account can enroll in Search Labs to access this advanced AI search experience via the Google app or Chrome desktop. “Generative AI can empower young users to ask questions that traditional search engines might not easily address, allowing them to pose follow-up queries for deeper exploration,” stated Hema Budaraju, Senior Director of Product Management at Google, in a blog post. “As we roll out this new technology to teens, we aim to provide significant benefits while prioritizing safety and aligning with their developmental needs. Leveraging insights from research and youth development experts, we’ve integrated additional safety measures into the user experience.”
Enhanced Safety Measures and Contextual Features
Budaraju highlighted that Google has established robust safeguards to limit the exposure of inappropriate or harmful content. For instance, enhanced protections are in place for responses linked to illegal activities, age-restricted substances, or bullying.
As Google reported increased popularity of the SGE among younger audiences since its launch, it noted that users aged 18-24 give the highest satisfaction scores, favoring conversational engagement when asking questions.
In addition to providing these improved experiences for teenagers, Google is introducing an “About this result” notice to the AI search feature. This feature, previously available in standard Google searches, offers insights into how SGE generated its responses, helping users understand the technology behind the search results.
Furthermore, Google is planning to extend the “About this result” feature to individual links included in SGE responses, enabling users to learn more about the web pages that support the information provided in AI-generated summaries.
Tackling False and Offensive Queries
The company is dedicated to refining the AI search experience further. One focus area is enhancing its ability to handle queries based on false or offensive premises, which may inadvertently lead to responses that validate such claims. Google acknowledges that this issue can persist even if the referenced web pages contain reliable information.
To tackle this challenge, Google is deploying updates aimed at training its AI model to better recognize and address these problematic queries, ensuring it delivers higher-quality and more accurate responses. The team is also exploring solutions that utilize large language models to assess their own initial responses on sensitive topics, allowing for revisions based on established quality and safety criteria.
Over the past few months, Google has enriched the AI search experience with features such as enhanced support for videos and images, localized information, travel recommendations, and new tools for summaries and definitions. The company has also begun experimenting with ad placements next to AI-generated responses.
With these ongoing advancements, Google is committed to continuously improving its AI-driven search capabilities, now expanding its reach beyond the U.S. into India and Japan.
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