Chrome is being loaded with AI functions, regardless of user preference by Google
In the coming months, Google is set to roll out a significant upgrade to its Chrome browser, marking the "biggest" change in its history, according to Mike Torres. This transformation sees Chrome evolving into an AI browser, with AI features being added to every vacant corner of the platform.
One of the key changes is the introduction of the Gemini button. This button offers users an AI-simplified interpretation of webpages, the ability to summarise information from multiple tabs, and other AI-related tasks.
Another notable feature is the AI Mode, which can be accessed by clicking a new button in the omnibox (address bar). This mode provides a chatbot-like search experience. Searching in AI Mode requires a new search button, not hitting Enter as it does in regular search. However, hitting Enter in AI Mode will still take users to regular Google search results.
Google is also enhancing Chrome's agentic capabilities, allowing it to act on web pages on behalf of users. For instance, Chrome will use AI agents to automate password changes with a single click on supported websites, including Coursera, Spotify, Duolingo, H&M, and more.
The AI in Chrome is expected to be opt-out rather than opt-in, meaning that users will be enrolled in these features by default unless they choose to opt-out. The responsibility for this decision lies with Google as the product owner, but no specific individual or department has been named in the search results.
Google is also using AI to enhance user security. The browser will use AI to block sites that use fake viruses or fake giveaways to trick users. Additionally, Chrome will use AI to learn a user's web preferences to help determine if a website that wants to send notifications is spam.
However, the company did not respond when asked about turning off these features or using information gleaned through them to train AIs.
The Gemini-ification of Chrome is currently rolling out for macOS and Windows users in the US, with their Chrome language set to English. It remains unclear if and when these features will be made available to users of other languages and platforms.
Google is not forced to sell its browser, and it seems that the company is committed to continuing its development and innovation in the browser space.
