Is it time to ‘disregard’ Google Search?
Google's AI Overviews have broken the oft-used dictionary functionality.
Google’s expansion of AI Overviews within Google Search has broken some pretty essential functionality, such as the ability to search for the word ‘disregard’ and receive a quick definition.
With the AI Overview appearing at the top of the page, Google seems to have got the idea that every instruction is a request for AI to get in on the act.
Right now if you Google the word ‘disregard’ you’ll see an AI Overview that reads: “Understood. Let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with!” And that’s just ridiculous.
Since time immemorial (one for the Sopranos fans there) Google has acted like a handy dictionary for users who need to ensure they’re using the correct word in a piece of writing, for example.
As TechCrunch points out, we may have found an example of Bing search being preferable to using Google because Microsoft’s much-maligned search engine serves up the dictionary definition.
If you scroll down to regular old Google search below the fold you’ll see the Merriam-Webster dictionary definition and the usual news headlines and associated videos and such. Well, Google did tell us that Search is becoming AI first now… so here’s the evidence of that.
Earlier this week during Google I/O, Google revealed the Google Search AI Mode will no longer simply be a side quest, it’s becoming the total package. The Search box is getting its biggest upgrade in 25-years Google says. Google says the new intelligent search box will put the most powerful AI tools at the user’s fingertips, powered by the brand new Gemini 3.5 update.
Users will be able to search across modalities, meaning you can ask questions based on images, files, videos or Chrome tabs. Those using AI mode will be able to ask follow up questions too.
Chris Smith
