Google has officially announced AI Mode, a new experimental feature for Search that provides more complex and detailed AI-generated responses. This new mode, which is currently in early testing, aims to answer longer and more nuanced queries by utilizing advanced reasoning and multimodal capabilities.
Why AI Mode?
Googleās internal testing revealed that users enjoy AI Overviews, leading to longer and more unique searches. Many users even add “AI” to their search queries, hoping for more intelligent responses. In response, Google developed AI Mode, which provides direct and in-depth answers beyond what AI Overviews offer.
How AI Mode Works
When searching on Google (desktop and mobile), users will see a new “AI Mode” button next to the existing filters (All, Images, Videos, etc.). Additionally, there will be a āGo deeperā shortcut at the bottom of AI Overviews, allowing users to enter AI Mode directly.
Instead of the traditional search bar, AI Mode introduces a chat-style “Ask a follow-upā¦” field at the bottom of the page. Users can:
- Upload images and speak queries (mobile-only).
- View past searches in a thread history.
- See sources used in AI-generated responses.
AI Modeās Advanced Search Abilities
AI Mode runs on Gemini 2.0 and pulls real-time data from the Knowledge Graph and Shopping Graph. It searches multiple related topics at once using a query fan-out method to find the best results. If reliable information is lacking, users will see traditional web results instead. This ensures accurate and useful answers.
Examples of AI Mode in Action
- Bird Migration: AI Mode researches across sources, organizes information, and presents a structured answer.
- Planning a Photoshoot: It checks real-time weather and golden hour timing to suggest the best day and time.
- Sleep Tracking Comparison: AI Mode generates a comparison table (coming soon) for smart rings, smartwatches, and tracking mats.
How AI Mode Connects to the Web
Unlike traditional Search, AI Mode does not display the usual “10 blue links.” Instead, it:
- Includes inline citations and side cards on desktop.
- Plans to add a rich carousel of links for more website connections.
- Ensures factual and objective responses, without opinions or personality.
Testing & Availability
- AI Mode is currently available exclusively in the US.
- Google One AI Premium subscribers ($19.99/month) will receive invitations via email to opt-in through Search Labs.
- A waitlist is also available for interested users.
Future Expansion
Google will improve AI Mode using feedback from users and later release it for everyone. AI Overviews, now enhanced by Gemini 2.0, will also expand worldwide. Users will see them more often, especially for complex coding, advanced math problems, and searches using Google Lens. This update aims to make AI assistance more useful.
