Google expands AI-first product push

Google used its I/O conference on May 19 to push artificial intelligence deeper into Search, Gemini and a new line of Android XR glasses. The company said AI Mode in Search now has more than 1 billion monthly users and that Gemini 3.5 Flash is becoming the default model in AI Mode globally. Google also said audio smart glasses developed with Samsung, Gentle Monster and Warby Parker will launch later this fall. The announcements landed as the competitive frame around AI widened beyond model benchmarks. Bloomberg reported on May 21 that the Pentagon is testing OpenAI and Google models as it looks for alternatives to Anthropic, using 25 “power users” to judge the systems. Politico reported on May 20 that OpenAI’s top lobbyist is pursuing a state-by-state strategy to shape AI rules as federal legislation stalls. (blog.google) ### What did Google actually put into Search this week? Google said on May 19 that Gemini 3.5 Flash is now the default model in AI Mode for users globally. Elizabeth Reid, Google’s vice president of Search, said the company is also rolling out what it called the biggest upgrade to the Search box in more than 25 years, with AI-powered suggestions and the ability to search using text, images, files, videos or Chrome tabs. (bloomberg.com) Google said AI Mode surpassed 1 billion monthly users one year after launch, and that queries in the product have more than doubled every quarter since launch. The company also said users can now move from AI Overviews into a back-and-forth conversation with AI Mode on desktop and mobile. ### How broad was the Gemini push? (blog.google) Sundar Pichai said on May 19 that Google is “in the part of the AI cycle where people want to see the value in the products they use every day.” In his keynote, Pichai said Google now processes more than 3.2 quadrillion tokens per month across its surfaces, up from roughly 480 trillion a year earlier, and that more than 8.5 million developers are building with Google models monthly. (blog.google) Google’s I/O roundup said Gemini 3.5 Flash is generally available through Google AI Studio and Android Studio, while Gemini 3.5 Pro is due next month. The company also introduced Gemini Omni, a model Google said can generate output from multiple input types, beginning with video. ### What is Google doing with AI glasses? (blog.google) Google said on May 19 that two types of Android XR eyewear are planned: audio glasses and display glasses. The audio version is scheduled to launch first later this fall, with partnerships involving Samsung, Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. Shahram Izadi, Google’s vice president and general manager for XR, said the glasses will let users ask Gemini about what they see, get turn-by-turn directions, send texts, take photos and hear translations. (blog.google) Google said the devices are designed to work hands-free through voice or taps on the frame. ### Why are Google’s product moves colliding with politics and procurement? (blog.google) Axios reported on May 21 that Google is trying to expand AI aggressively without damaging the search and advertising businesses that fund the company. The report said Google enters the contest with scale, distribution and cash flow that rivals such as OpenAI and Anthropic do not match. (blog.google) Bloomberg reported on May 21 that the Defense Department is testing OpenAI and Google models as it seeks a replacement for Anthropic in part of its AI work. Politico reported a day earlier that Chris Lehane, OpenAI’s chief global affairs officer, is pushing what he called a “reverse federalism” strategy through Democratic-led states. (axios.com) ### What does the trust problem look like right now? Axios reported on May 12 that Google researchers identified what may be the first known case of cybercriminals using AI to discover and weaponize a previously unknown zero-day vulnerability. That report added to concerns about how quickly AI systems can be used offensively as adoption spreads. (bloomberg.com) The next public milestones are already dated. Google said Gemini 3.5 Pro will roll out next month, and its Android XR audio glasses with Samsung, Gentle Monster and Warby Parker are due later this fall. (blog.google) (axios.com)