Google vs Microsoft: May 2025 AI Roadmap Announcements Compared

This week (May 2025), both Google and Microsoft competed with similar-timed announcements at their respective developer conferences. In typical fashion, they were timed well so that one would not outshine the others. Here's a breakdown of how they compare to each other. This way, you don't have to do the legwork.

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Our Commentary: Everything in a quick read.

• Google's is focusing on enhancing search experiences through AI Mode and developing a robust AI agent ecosystem. They have taken the route of profiting from how users interact with information.

  
  

• Microsoft's introduction of Copilot+ PCs and features like Recall follows its strategy to embed AI deeply into the Windows operating system and hardware.

Project team brainstorms around a wall-sized interactive screen loaded with colour-coded ideas.

Google’s 2025 AI Roadmap Announcements

Gemini 2.5 Pro and Flash

Google introduced Gemini 2.5 Pro, their most advanced AI model to date, featuring enhanced reasoning capabilities and a new "Deep Think" mode for complex tasks. Alongside this, Gemini 2.5 Flash was launched, optimized for faster responses and lower latency, making it suitable for real-time applications. 

AI Mode in Search

A significant shift in Google's search experience is the introduction of "AI Mode," a conversational assistant that handles complex queries by breaking them down and synthesizing responses. This feature aims to automate the traditional search process, providing users with curated information without the need to scroll through multiple links.

Project Mariner and Agent Ecosystem

Project Mariner is designed to execute multiple web tasks simultaneously, enhancing the capabilities of AI Mode. Additionally, Google unveiled an agent ecosystem, including the Agent Development Kit (ADK) and Agent2Agent (A2A) protocol, facilitating the development and communication of AI agents across various platforms.

Infrastructure Enhancements

The seventh-generation TPU, codenamed "Ironwood," was announced, offering significant performance improvements for AI workloads. Google also introduced the Cloud Wide Area Network (Cloud WAN), providing faster and more reliable network performance for enterprises. 

Microsoft's AI Announcements

Copilot+ PCs and Recall Feature

Microsoft introduced Copilot+ PCs, a new category of Windows 11 devices equipped with advanced AI capabilities. A standout feature is "Recall," which allows users to search and retrieve past activities and content across applications, enhancing productivity and user experience. 

Real-Time Translation and AI Integration

The new Copilot+ PCs offer real-time translation features, supporting multiple languages and facilitating seamless communication. Microsoft emphasized the integration of AI across its product suite, aiming to enhance user interactions and streamline workflows. 

Advancements in AI Hardware

Microsoft highlighted its collaboration with hardware partners to develop devices optimized for AI tasks, ensuring efficient performance and responsiveness. These advancements are part of Microsoft's broader strategy to embed AI deeply into the Windows ecosystem. 

Comparative Overview

Feature	Google	Microsoft
AI Models	Gemini 2.5 Pro and Flash	Integrated AI in Copilot+ PCs
Search Experience	AI Mode with conversational assistant	Enhanced search with Recall feature
AI Agents	Project Mariner, ADK, Agent2Agent protocol	AI integration across Windows applications
Hardware Innovations	Ironwood TPU, Cloud WAN	AI-optimized Copilot+ PCs
Real-Time Translation	Integrated into smart glasses and devices	Built into Copilot+ PCs