Alphabet, the parent company of Google, recently released its first-quarter 2026 financial report. CEO Sundar Pichai announced that due to the comprehensive layout of artificial intelligence technology, the number of Google search queries reached a historical high in the previous quarter. This growth proves that the improvement in AI experience is significantly enhancing user engagement and driving a 19% year-over-year increase in search business revenue.
AI-driven explosive growth in consumer subscription services
This quarter marked the strongest period for Google's consumer AI program since its launch. The total number of paid subscription users has officially exceeded 350 million. The global rollout of the Gemini App is considered the core engine behind this growth, while the high conversion rates of YouTube and Google One also provided key driving forces.
In terms of product portfolio, Google has recently launched multiple AI-integrated features, including task automation on the Pixel 10 series and the "auto-browsing" function in the Chrome browser. These innovations not only enriched users' digital lives but also directly contributed to Alphabet's consolidated revenue reaching $109.9 billion, a significant 22% increase compared to the same period last year.
Comprehensive business upgrades and continuous ecosystem optimization
Aside from advancements in software services, Google remained active in hardware and service sectors, launching the Pixel 10A and making major compliance adjustments to Google Play. Total service business revenue grew by 16% to $89.6 billion, with particularly impressive growth in platform and device businesses.
Pichai emphasized that investments in artificial intelligence are "illuminating" all aspects of the company's operations, allowing Google to maintain strong profitability despite external pressures such as search monopoly disputes. Currently, Google is reshaping core office tools like Gmail through the Gemini model, aiming to secure an absolute leading position in the trend toward office AIization.
