Google Mulls Charging for AI-Powered Search Upgrades While Keeping Core Engine Free
• Google considering charging for premium AI-powered search features, looking at incorporating into existing subscription services • Would put core search product behind paywall for first time, seeking ground in AI space • Traditional search engine would remain free, ads would still appear alongside results • Google battling OpenAI's ChatGPT and backer Microsoft in AI space • Company says "not working on or considering an ad-free search experience", will continue building "premium capabilities"