As you read this article, you are likely using a specific search engine. Whether it is Google, Safari, Firefox, or others, these search engines provide users with an array of information at their fingertips. In most cases, people rarely switch from their search engine to others as they are comfortable with the platform. If you search on the Internet for the leading search engine, Google dominates the list. This company’s primary competitor has been Microsoft for countless years. 

Though Google has only been around since 1998, compared to Microsoft which launched in 1975, its continued success is rooted in its ability to appeal to users efficiently. Competition authorities conclude that Google obtains an index of 500 to 600 billion web pages, whereas Microsoft has 100 to 200 billion as of 2020. More information is recorded and available for users to access through Google’s search engine than Microsoft, which makes browsing the web even more engaging. 

To compete with Google’s AI-powered search engine and chatbot Bard, Microsoft has recently launched a new AI-powered search engine. The company states it is an “AI co-pilot” for users’ activity while on the Internet. There are many features this tool presents, my favorite being the creativity it holds. 

In a demonstration on Microsoft’s website, users can ask questions or even for a suggestion as stated, “My anniversary is coming up in September, help me plan a trip somewhere fun in Europe, leaving from London.” With further elaboration, the AI’s response states in a photo, “If you like beaches and sunshine, you can fly to Malaga in Spain,” or even “If you like art and history, you can fly to Florence in Italy.” Many other features make this search engine stand out, notably by reinventing search through collaboration with OpenAI, an Artificial Intelligence company founded on December 11, 2015.

OpenAI has contributed notably to this project. Microsoft and OpenAI teams are actively working to address misinformation and content blocking, as well as preventing discriminatory or hazardous content to ensure a safe and secure user experience while on the web. Regarding misinformation, a recent incident with Google’s AI bot has come to light. 

An incorrect answer given by Bard regarding a user’s question has decreased Google’s stock market value by $100 billion dollars, which is alarming to Google’s AI reputation. On the other hand, Microsoft may have an advantage in this situation’s circumstances, especially with the future of its AI-powered search engine. 

You can access the new website here and ask questions the bot will swiftly answer. Microsoft notes that it will expand the public view to millions soon, as it is limited to those using the desktop browser. The company additionally states, “We’re excited to put the new Bing and Edge into the real world to get the critical feedback required to improve our models as we scale.” While it is the beginning of this new journey for Microsoft, there is an extensive amount of hope and fondness from the public, as well as many questions regarding the platform awaiting to be answered.