Google Search adds '5-minute precipitation forecast' and 'search by hashtag' features
On June 19, 2024, Google introduced new features added to Google Search. The new features are '5-minute precipitation forecasts from Google Nowcast based on the MetNet model' and 'hashtag search.'
Introducing cool new features in Google Search: more accurate weather forecasts and hashtag searches
Weathernews co-develops new AI-based weather forecasting technology 'Google Nowcast' with Google | Weathernews Inc.
◆Precipitation forecast every 5 minutes
According to a survey by the Japan Meteorological Agency, about 85% of users check the weather on the Internet at least once a day ( PDF file) . In addition, since meteorological variables such as precipitation, temperature, and wind have a direct impact on society and the economy, more accurate weather forecasts are required.
However, traditional weather forecasts require simulations using supercomputers, which require a huge amount of calculations and time. Therefore, in 2020, Google developed an AI model called the ' Neural Meteorological Model (MetNet)' that predicts future weather patterns based on past observation data. MetNet makes it possible to forecast the weather across the United States in just a few seconds.
Subsequently, in November 2023, we announced
Google announced that it will deploy a new rainfall forecast model based on the MetNet-3 model in Japan on June 19, 2024. Google is partnering with Weathernews to build this model.
This model adds a new feature called 'Google Nowcast,' which displays precipitation forecasts every 5 minutes for up to 12 hours when searching for 'today's weather' on Google. According to Weathernews, in developing 'Google Nowcast,' the company used its own analyzed precipitation data that reflects observation data from approximately 13,000 locations across Japan and weather reports from users of the weather app ' Weathernews .' By training MetNet-3 with this data, the company has achieved highly accurate precipitation forecasts.
Regarding the rollout of 'Google Nowcast,' Google said, 'It will be available gradually from July 2024.'
◆Search by hashtag
According to a Google survey, compared to other countries, people in Japan have a strong need to dig deeper into the latest trends and topics that interest them. In addition, hashtags, such as '#I want to connect with people who like photography,' are often used as a way to connect with people who share the same interests.
Therefore, Google has added a function that allows users to search by hashtags in Google Search. When searching for a keyword with a hashtag, it will display timely topics and niche information from social media and other online sources.
In fact, if you search for '
According to Google, at the time of writing, the 'search by hashtag' feature is only available in Japan.
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