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Alphabet Makes Gemini 3.5 Flash the Default in Search as It Bets Heavily on AI

The move is meant to drive paid adoption of new AI features to shore up returns on a planned $180–$190 billion infrastructure build.

Overview

  • Google announced at its developer event that Gemini 3.5 Flash is now the default model in Search and that AI Mode in Search has passed 1 billion monthly users, showing rapid user shift to AI-native experiences.
  • The company rolled out a broad product slate that includes Gemini Omni, a 24/7 personal agent called Gemini Spark, Antigravity 2.0 for code, an agent-optimized desktop app, Universal Cart for cross-service shopping, and details on intelligent eyewear.
  • Alphabet is pushing monetization with new paid tiers such as a $100 monthly plan for developers and creators plus a reduced Ultra tier and plans to launch information agents first for premium users.
  • Management told investors it will raise capital spending materially to support AI chips and cloud capacity, with a capex forecast of $180–$190 billion, even as Google Cloud reported strong growth to about $20 billion in quarterly revenue.
  • Regulatory complaints in Europe over scam ads and analyst warnings that AI-related costs may outpace near-term gains have left investors cautious, though major brokerages continue to rate the stock a buy while stressing that upcoming margins will be the key test.