Google is reportedly giving its own AI service, Gemini, preferential access to its search data over rival AI applications. While Google has provided some AI firms with access to its search results to enhance chatbot responses, key features remain exclusive to Gemini. This decision could give Gemini a significant advantage in accuracy and comprehensiveness.
The move raises concerns about potential anti-competitive practices, as competitors may struggle to match Gemini's performance without equal access to Google's search data. The implications of this strategy on the broader AI market and the fairness of competition are yet to be seen. Competitors may need to explore alternative data sources or develop innovative techniques to overcome this disadvantage.
Gemini's architecture allows it to reason across various data types, including text, images, audio, video, and code. This multimodality, combined with prioritised access to Google's search data, positions Gemini as a comprehensive AI solution. The long-term effects of this strategy on the AI landscape will depend on how regulators and other industry players respond.