Google's AI Overview, now available in France, raises anticipation and concern

From now on, when users in France type a question into Google, they may see a short answer generated by artificial intelligence (AI). AI Overviews are being launched on Wednesday, July 22, the company announced. They will appear at the top of the search results page, above the traditional list of blue links previously offered by the search engine.

If they wish, users can ask a follow-up question, which will switch them into "AI Mode," a conversational interface similar to that of assistants like ChatGPT or Gemini (Google's own AI assistant). This mode will also be accessible via a separate tab. Two additional features are being introduced: Users will be able to add photos or files to the search bar, and "Search Live," which allows searches using live video captured by a smartphone.

"Every technological evolution has unlocked totally new ways people can ask questions," explained Robby Stein, Google's vice president, recalling previous innovations such as voice and image search. The arrival of AI "is no different, but is maybe the most profound" change, he acknowledged. The new features cannot be disabled, but a "Web Mode" tab will allow users to access the traditional search engine. According to Google, these features will only appear for complex queries. Each AI-generated answer will be accompanied by links to web pages, the company emphasized.

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