Google I/O Opening Attendees are lined up at the entrance of the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California, the venue for Google's annual developer conference, 'Google I/O,' on the 19th (local time). [Getty Images via AFP=Yonhap News]Google Search is set to undergo its biggest transformation in 25 years as it enters the era of artificial intelligence (AI).

At its annual developer event, 'Google I/O,' held at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California, on the 19th (local time), Google unveiled its new 'intelligent search bar.'

The intelligent search bar can utilize various forms of data for searches, not just text, but also images, files, videos, and Chrome tabs.

A feature has also been added that expands the search bar size naturally when long text is entered.

Furthermore, a function has been added that goes beyond simple auto-completion of search terms, helping to refine search terms or questions through AI-based suggestions.

The search results screen has also been revamped. A conversational interface, transitioning smoothly from an 'AI Overview' at the top of the screen to an 'AI Mode' in a chatbot format, has been introduced, allowing for follow-up questions while maintaining context.

Additionally, a 'generative user interface (UI)' feature will be added starting this summer, which can instantly generate and display visualizations such as charts, video materials, and widgets when needed.

Search capabilities for tasks requiring long-term management, such as wedding preparations or moving, are also being introduced. A dashboard will be provided for users to return at any time to check progress and manage their tasks.

These series of updates effectively bring Google Search one step closer to the AI chatbot Gemini, marking the most significant change since the introduction of image search in 2001, a slight overhaul after its inception in 1997 with a simple, single-line search bar.

Conversational window appearing in Google Search bar [Provided by Google]

Google Search will also incorporate an 'information agent' function that discreetly monitors and notifies users of information 24 hours a day, without requiring them to search each time.

For instance, it can immediately notify you when a property matching your criteria is listed or when limited edition sneakers from your favorite athlete are released.

This feature will be initially available this summer to Google AI 'Pro' and 'Ultra' subscribers in the United States.

An agent reservation feature has also been added for users in the U.S. For example, by entering specific criteria such as 'Find a karaoke bar available for 6 people on Friday night with late-night dining options,' you can check costs and availability. A link to book immediately will also be provided.

Personalized search that utilizes user personal information by connecting apps within the Google ecosystem is now also possible. Currently, Gmail and Google Photos are included, with Google Calendar integration to be added in the future.

Google emphasizes that users will retain full control over data connection permissions for such personalized searches.

Sundar Pichai, CEO, stated, "Search is the most used AI product in the world," adding, "The problem of search has only been 1% solved."

This implies that 99% of search functionality still awaits solutions, signaling an ongoing evolution of AI-powered search in the future.