Google is redesigning its iconic search bar for the first time since 2001, embracing longer AI-powered queries and interactive features. The overhaul, announced Tuesday, transforms the traditional keyword box into a more expansive interface powered by the new Gemini 3.5 Flash model.

The changes enable users to upload photos and videos directly into searches, ask follow-up chatbot questions, and receive automated assistance through AI agents. Google's shift responds to competition from ChatGPT and aims to capture more complex user queries that provide deeper advertising insights.

Market implications are substantial. Google's ad clicks increased 6% last year with 7% higher pricing per click, while annual profit doubled to $132 billion since 2022. The Gemini app now boasts 900 million active users, matching ChatGPT's reach.

New features include AI shopping carts with compatibility warnings, Gemini Omni video editing tools, and smart glasses developed with Samsung and Warby Parker. These integrations help Google maintain dominance as AI reshapes how users interact with the open web, reducing third-party sites to raw data providers.