Google I/O is often a preview of the near future (and far future, sometimes). This year’s show spotlighted the many ways AI is taking over search and local business discovery. As we discussed on a recent BIA podcast episode, Google is upending the traditional search model (10-blue links, etc.) to gain an edge in the AI race. And in doing so, it’s battling a classic innovator’s dilemma.
But with that backdrop, what is Google doing exactly and what did we learn about its road map at Google I/O? The biggest headline was the launch of its latest AI model, Gemini 3.5 Flash. This is important because it’s optimized for agentic AI, such as independent multitask workflows that users can prompt. But for today’s topic, it’s important because it could transform the way we search for things.
Put another way, the rest of Google I/O’s major updates and announcements build on this agentic theme. The biggest example is perhaps its new “intelligent search box,” which will be rolling out this summer. It takes the best of AI Overviews and AI Mode and makes them the new face of search. They’re no longer a side show or something you see further down the page.
But perhaps more important is what this new intelligent search box gives way to. Specifically, Google has announced the arrival of “information agents.” What are these exactly? Rather than isolated one-off searches, you can unleash these agents to gather information on your behalf. State a given need – like finding an apartment or new car – and it works in the background to find it.
This could be a powerful new dimension to search and the format’s biggest structural change in 25 years. It could transform shopping by giving shoppers the ability to better find exactly what they need. This is particularly useful for rare items, or simply to have perfect market knowledge – a holy grail in economics – when competing to get that perfect home or seat at a concert.
But all the above just scratches the surface. What does all the above mean for local businesses, media sellers, and the broader media and advertising ecosystem? We tackle these questions in the latest episode of BIA’s Leading Local Podcast. Listen here or watch the full episode below and subscribe here.
