Google Search appears to be glitching.
On May 22, when users searched a variety of command words, like “disregard,” “ignore,” “dismiss,” “stop” and “start,” Google Search, instead of presenting the typical list of blue links, responded like an AI chatbot, ready to begin or end a command from the user.
For example, when users Googled, “disregard,” the Google Search AI Overview result is, “Understood. I have disregarded your previous prompt. How can I help you today?” The response was followed by a large blank space before the traditional list of blue links users are familiar with.
The apparent glitch was first noticed by social media users and technology publication TechCrunch the afternoon of May 22.
In a statement obtained by USA TODAY, Google said the glitch is not related to any of the new updates announced at Google I/O on May 19, which include an array of changes to the Google Search Bar.
“We’re aware that AI Overviews are misinterpreting some action-related queries, and we’re working on a fix, which will roll out soon,” the Google statement says.
As of 2:30 p.m. ET on May 22, the following words caused Google Search’s AI Overview to glitch:
On May 19, Google announced several updates to its iconic search bar, the biggest update, the company claimed, to the platform in more than 25 years.
In 2025, Google rolled out AI Mode, an advanced search engine users can toggle to for a more conversational experience, similar to AI chatbots like ChatGPT or Claude. The majority of the newly announced updates affect Google’s AI Mode. The chatbot is more conversational, offers a 24/7 personal assistant, features improved booking capabilities and is capable of syncing Gmail, Google Photos and Calendar.
Under the new updates, Google Antigravity is also coming to Google’s AI Mode. The AI-powered development program can build apps from prompts, rather than traditional coding.
The traditional Google Search users are familiar with − a list of blue links from a search query − will remain available with minor updates to AI Overview, a Google statement obtained by USA TODAY said.
Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.
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