Thu. 05/08 – Is AI Eating Into Google Search?

May 8, 2025 16m

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Episode Description

OpenAI has hired Instacart’s CEO to be a kind of CEO. Apple reveals the degree to which AI might be eating into Google Search. Why aren’t people seeing a return on their AI investments yet? And my dream grid gadget is finally coming to the US. Sponsors: Oracle.com/techmeme Links: OpenAI hires InstaCart CEO Fidji Simo for major leadership role (Fortune) Instacart CEO Fidji Simo is joining OpenAI (TechCrunch) Apple Eyes Move to AI Search, Ending Era Defined by Google (Bloomberg) Anthropic rolls out an API for AI-powered web search (TechCrunch) FYI: Most AI spending driven by FOMO, not ROI, CEOs tell IBM, LOL (The Register) Netflix debuts its generative AI-powered search tool (TechCrunch) EcoFlow brings its plug-in solar power plant to US homes (The Verge)

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OpenAI Hires Instacart CEO

OpenAI has appointed Fidji Simo, CEO of Instacart, as the new CEO of Applications. Reporting directly to Sam Altman, Simo will oversee the newly formed Applications Division, combining previous teams responsible for building, marketing, and commercializing OpenAI products. Simo, noted for her success in leading Instacart’s IPO and her tenure at Meta, is expected to enhance OpenAI's operational efficiency. However, her hiring raises questions about Altman's long-term focus on the company, especially after recent decisions regarding OpenAI's governance.

Apple's Shift to AI-driven Search

In ongoing legal battles with Google, Apple’s Eddie Q revealed that Apple is exploring AI-based search options for its Safari browser. This comes amidst a notable decrease in search activity on iOS, attributed to emerging AI search tools. Q advocates for the potential of AI to redefine search engine use, signaling that Apple may facilitate integration with AI providers like OpenAI and Perplexity. These developments could disrupt the long-standing partnership between Apple and Google, hinting at significant shifts in the search landscape.

Challenges in AI Investments

Despite the soaring interest in AI technologies, an IBM survey indicated that only 25% of AI initiatives among CEOs have yielded the expected financial returns, with even fewer reaching enterprise-wide scalability. Many organizations continue to invest in AI out of fear of missing out (FOMO), rather than having a clear strategy for realizing benefits. This signifies the ongoing struggle in balancing innovation with operational stability amidst evolving AI capabilities.

Notable AI Features Launches

Netflix has introduced a ChatGPT-like search feature to enhance user experience, allowing for more natural preference-based queries for content discovery. This follows similar strategies by competitors, demonstrating the industry's trend towards leveraging generative AI for improved user engagement. Meanwhile, Anthropic has launched its web search API, enabling AI models to access and incorporate real-time information for advanced functionalities, potentially broadening user applications.

Innovative Gadget: Plug-in Solar System

The US market is set to receive Echo Flow's plug-in solar power solution, a previously European-exclusive gadget. This system allows users to connect solar energy directly into home outlets, reducing energy bills and providing backup power. Initially launching in Utah, the system represents a significant advancement towards accessible renewable energy solutions for renters and homeowners.