WEB DESK: Robby Stein, Vice President of Google Search, addressed concerns that the company’s integration of AI into search could negatively impact web publishers and its advertising revenue.
He described the development as an “expansionary phase” for the internet rather than a threat.Stein emphasized that Google continues to send billions of clicks to external websites daily, and this volume remains steady despite the introduction of AI-driven features that provide direct answers to user queries. He highlighted that evolving search behaviors, such as using mobile cameras or tackling complex questions, are opening new avenues for growth. “This is a massive expansion,” he stated, “the overall size of the internet is growing rapidly.”
Regarding worries about the shift toward conversational AI disrupting advertising, Stein compared it to the transition from desktop to mobile browsing. He explained that advertising models will adapt to new formats, with AI-integrated ads offering helpful solutions—such as suggesting relevant products for a user dealing with a raccoon issue.
Stein’s comments come amidst reports that OpenAI has issued a “code red” to accelerate ChatGPT improvements amid intensifying competition from Google. Meanwhile, Alphabet has continued to diversify its offerings, launching innovative tools like Nano Banana and expanding its cloud services, fueling a nearly 67% rise in its stock this year.
Addressing concerns about media traffic decline, Stein reaffirmed Google’s commitment to the web, describing AI as a “powerful discovery engine” that encourages deeper exploration and source citations. He also downplayed the impact of recent U.S. antitrust rulings, asserting that technological capabilities remain the primary driver of innovation.
Though media leaders have warned of declining referral traffic due to AI-generated summaries reducing clicks, Stein reassured stakeholders that Google’s core revenue streams are secure as the company advances its AI-powered search capabilities.
