Google has introduced a new Search Labs experiment called “Ask for Me,” a feature designed to simplify the process of gathering information about local services. This experimental tool allows Google AI to call businesses on behalf of users, helping them find out what a service costs and when it is available. Instead of manually contacting multiple businesses, users can rely on Google AI to handle these inquiries and provide them with the necessary details.
This feature is particularly beneficial for people searching for common services such as car maintenance, home repairs, or beauty treatments. For example, if a user is looking for an oil change at a nearby mechanic, “Ask for Me” can contact local businesses and return key information like pricing and appointment availability. This eliminates the need to visit multiple websites or make phone calls, saving both time and effort.
Google has designed this tool to function within Search, meaning users don’t need to leave their search results to gather the information they need. When searching for relevant queries, such as “oil change near me” or “plumbers in my area,” the feature may appear as an option within the search results. Users can then choose to let Google AI make inquiries on their behalf.
To gain access to “Ask for Me,” users must first opt into the experiment through Google’s Search Labs platform. By visiting the Search Labs page and selecting “Join to Try,” users can enable the feature for their account. Once activated, Google may automatically display the “Ask for Me” option when relevant searches are performed.
Although this feature has the potential to be highly convenient, it is still in its experimental phase, meaning it may not be available for all users or businesses just yet. Since it relies on AI-driven calls, the effectiveness of the responses will depend on how businesses interact with automated inquiries and how well Google AI processes the information it gathers.
For now, the experiment appears to focus on basic service inquiries, such as checking prices and availability. It does not handle complex requests or bookings, meaning users may still need to contact businesses directly for more detailed inquiries. However, as the technology develops, Google may expand its capabilities to include additional types of business interactions.
The launch of “Ask for Me” marks another step in Google’s ongoing efforts to integrate AI into its search ecosystem. By enabling AI-powered interactions with businesses, Google aims to improve the search experience and reduce friction in finding essential information. If successful, this tool could become a standard feature within Google Search, further enhancing the way users engage with local businesses.
As with all Search Labs experiments, Google will likely refine “Ask for Me” based on user feedback and business participation. If widely adopted, this AI-driven feature could revolutionize how people gather service-related information, making local searches faster and more efficient.
Google has introduced a new Search Labs experiment that allows users to leverage AI to call businesses and gather information on service pricing and availability. Rose Yao, VP of Search Product, Verticals & International at Google, shared details about this feature on X, highlighting its potential to assist users in connecting with businesses more efficiently.
Currently, the experiment focuses on specific industries, such as auto repair shops and nail salons, where users frequently need quick service information. By opting into the experiment, users can search for queries like “oil change near me”, and Google AI will contact nearby businesses on their behalf. This AI-driven approach aims to simplify the process of comparing service costs and scheduling availability without requiring users to make calls themselves.
The technology behind this feature is not entirely new. Google is utilising its existing Duplex AI, which was originally introduced to help users make restaurant reservations via Google Search and Maps. Duplex has already been used to keep business details, such as operating hours, updated on Google Maps, a feature that proved particularly useful during the pandemic when business hours frequently changed.
Duplex, first demonstrated at Google I/O in 2018, was designed as an AI-powered phone system capable of making natural-sounding calls to businesses that lack online booking options. The technology impressed audiences at its initial launch, as it could carry out conversations that closely mimicked human speech patterns, making it highly effective for appointment scheduling and business inquiries.
The introduction of “Ask for Me” represents another potential shift in how Google interacts with businesses and customers. By allowing AI to handle basic inquiries, Google could increase the efficiency of local business searches and drive more leads to service providers. However, it remains uncertain whether this feature will be widely adopted or expanded beyond its current experimental phase.
Google has assured businesses that participation is optional. Any company that prefers not to receive AI-generated calls can opt out of the experiment. Additionally, Google clearly discloses when a call is made by AI, ensuring transparency in business interactions.
As this is still an early-stage experiment, capacity is currently limited, and users who attempt to opt in may encounter a waitlist. Google is closely monitoring feedback and usage patterns to determine whether this AI-driven service can provide real value to both businesses and customers.
Ultimately, this experiment reflects Google’s continued efforts to enhance search functionality and bridge the gap between users and local businesses. Whether it becomes a permanent feature remains to be seen, but it highlights the company’s ongoing push to integrate AI more seamlessly into everyday search experiences.
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