The Download: Google playing AI search catchup, and forming relationships with chatbots
Mar 17, 2025 - technologyreview.com
The article discusses the competitive landscape in AI, highlighting Google's efforts to integrate new AI features from its Gemini model into its search engine, which appears to be an attempt to catch up with OpenAI's ChatGPT. This move is seen as a delayed response, with the features being introduced in March 2025, raising concerns about Google's position in the AI race. The piece also touches on broader AI trends, such as the convergence of major players on similar technologies and the implications of AI chatbots on communication.
Additionally, the article covers various technology-related news, including the impact of USAID cuts on global health, shifts in consumer behavior towards Tesla, and venture capital interest in Israeli startups. It also mentions NASA's plans to return stranded astronauts, Baidu's new AI model, Alphabet's internet project, and the resurgence of AIDS denialism fueled by COVID-19 conspiracies. The piece concludes with lighter content, offering comfort and entertainment suggestions.
Key takeaways:
Google is adding new AI features from Gemini to search, aiming to catch up with OpenAI's ChatGPT.
Trump's foreign aid cuts are expected to negatively impact global health, potentially leading to loss of lives and untreated diseases.
VC firms are investing in Israeli startups, anticipating future business with the US.
NASA plans to return two stranded astronauts, with a new crew having arrived to relieve them.
