# How Google’s AI Search Is Threatening the Open Web AI-powered search is reshaping the future of the internet. - **Source:** [NYT > Technology](https://brifing.si/source/decc78ce-c15d-4060-967b-334c94229615) - **Published:** 2026-07-20 - **Topic:** [Data & AI](https://brifing.si/c/data-ai) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/27710146-f007-45c3-98d2-4b4d9e74281b ## Google’s Internet Mission When Google went public in 2004, Larry Page outlined the company’s responsibility to the world: 'Society should have free and unbiased access to high-quality information.' This mission made Google the gateway to the internet, directing users to the 'open web.' ## The Rise of the Open Web Google indexed millions of websites, making it easier for users to access information. Over time, the open web grew, and Google became one of the most powerful companies in the world. However, the dynamics are shifting in the age of artificial intelligence. ## The AI Revolution Last year, Google revamped its search experience with AI. The AI Mode feature replaced traditional hyperlink results with conversational responses written by Gemini, its AI chatbot. This offers users a faster and more personalized experience. ## Revolutionizing the Search Box For the first time in 25 years, Google changed its iconic search box. Users can now add photos and videos to their queries and use AI 'agents' to run automated searches. This transformation is reshaping the search experience. ## The Future of the Open Web Google’s AI-driven approach raises questions about the future of the open web. Users are increasingly relying on Google’s responses rather than visiting websites. This poses a significant threat to content creators and website owners. ## The Transformation of the Internet Google’s AI strategy is fundamentally changing how the internet operates. As the open web faces existential risks, this shift could have profound implications for both the tech world and society at large. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/20/technology/google-ai-open-web.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._