Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming an integral component of search engines today. Platforms like Google, DuckDuckGo, and Brave have implemented various AI functionalities into their search capabilities. Recently, Microsoft introduced Bing Copilot Search, which presents a refreshing alternative that many users find superior to Google’s AI Overviews.
Instantly Disable AI Features
One of the unique aspects of search engines is that user preferences can vary — not everyone wants AI-generated summaries. While I appreciate the inclusion of AI features for quick answers, it’s essential to have the option to turn them off effortlessly when needed.
In comparison, Google makes it rather tedious to disable AI summaries, requiring multiple steps. However, with Bing Copilot Search, turning off AI responses is a straightforward process. Simply conduct a search, navigate to the hamburger menu located at the top right corner, expand the Copilot Settings, and toggle the option for Copilot response on result page off.
If you’re logged into your account, Bing remembers your preferences for future searches. If not, you’ll have to disable this feature again during subsequent browsing sessions, depending on your cookie settings.
Organized Groups of Answers
When comparing AI-generated search results across various platforms, a common format usually emerges: a couple of paragraphs summarized at the top, sometimes flaunting a bullet list and a few links for reference. Bing Copilot Search, however, takes a refreshing approach.
Instead of cramming information, Bing organizes the results into distinct groups. For instance, when I searched “What is Copilot?”, I received four organized sections that included:
- A succinct overview of Copilot
- Key features and functionalities
- Service availability and subscription options
- An AI-generated in-depth summary, which felt more like a detailed blog post
With search results neatly separated from AI answers, which are prominently displayed on the first page, the design facilitates a more user-friendly experience. While Bing’s layout captures more thorough information compared to Google’s approach, it also occupies significant real estate on the search results page, which could be a downside for some users.
Engage in Conversation with Copilot
Ever found yourself wanting to ask follow-up questions after reading an AI-generated summary? If you’ve experienced this with Google, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, Google typically requires a fresh search or logging into Google Gemini for dialogue, which can be a hassle as logging in is a barrier. Bing’s Copilot alleviates this concern by allowing seamless interaction without the need to log in, although please note that any conversations won’t be stored unless you are logged in.
By utilizing Bing Copilot Search, you can easily delve into a chat interface by adjusting your search filters. Below your search term, you’ll see options for Images, News, Maps, and now, Copilot as an additional filter. Clicking this filter opens a chat with your query readily prepared in a new tab.
Once there, you can continue exploring your topics of interest, aided by suggested questions to kickstart your inquiries.
Effortless Source Verification
A major allure of using AI in search engines lies in the ability to trust the information being presented. Thus, having easy access to the source of AI-generated answers is critical for discerning accuracy. While Google does incorporate sources for AI Overviews, their display leaves much to be desired, often appearing too small and tucked away.
Bing, on the other hand, places sources front and center in Copilot Search results. To verify the information, simply hover over the link icon provided in the AI responses. In fact, the initial group of AI-generated answers includes substantial source boxes detailing the source name and title directly, ensuring users can verify information swiftly.
This intuitive design doesn’t falter on mobile devices either — though the limited screen space may affect visibility, all sources are still accessible for users on the go.
Earn Rewards While Searching
Though this feature isn’t strictly linked to Copilot Search, why not earn rewards while utilizing AI search features? Unlike Google, which doesn’t provide any such incentives, Bing offers a rewards program. Getting started is easy — simply create a Microsoft account and log into Bing. You can then click on the Reward icon next to your profile name located at the top right of the page. This feature allows you to monitor your points and discover additional tasks to earn even more points.
Every search you make contributes to your rewards — meaning those AI summaries can also earn you points. While Google merely gives you AI summaries and ads, Bing allows you to enjoy the benefits of AI search as you accumulate points convertible to gift cards. Importantly, the Microsoft Rewards system functions across all browsers, provided that your searches are conducted through Bing. You can also enjoy the flexibility of switching between Bing, Google, and any other alternatives as per your needs. If only Bing would integrate Google’s Circle to Search feature on mobile, it would be ideal!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I disable AI summaries on Bing?
You can easily turn off AI summaries by clicking the hamburger menu in the top right corner after conducting a search, selecting Copilot Settings, and toggling off Copilot response on result page.
2. What distinguishes Bing’s Copilot Search from Google’s AI Overviews?
Bing’s Copilot Search organizes information into groups of answers, allowing for a more comprehensive overview, while Google’s AI summaries typically provide shorter summaries without clear separation. Additionally, Bing offers a chat feature that eliminates the need for logins and facilitates follow-up questions.
3. Are there rewards for using Bing’s search?
Yes! By creating a Microsoft account and logging into Bing, you can earn points for every search. These points can be redeemed for rewards, unlike Google, which does not offer any similar incentives.
Leave a Reply ▼