Google rolls out AI Mode in Search
Google's new feature is designed to handle more complex queries, such as in-depth technical explanations, side-by-side comparisons, and more.
Tech behemoth has introduced a new “AI Mode” in its Search feature, offering AI-generated results for users to find information online.
Google will roll out the feature to users in the US over the coming week. The new mode will appear as a dedicated tab to the left of the traditional “All,” “Images,” “Videos,” and “Shopping” sections, the company said.
Unlike traditional Search, which offers a list of links, the new AI Mode will generate a direct answer using information from Google’s search index. The feature is designed to handle more complex queries, such as in-depth technical explanations and side-by-side comparisons, said the company.
The latest update builds on Google’s earlier “AI Overviews,” which provide a brief AI-generated summary at the top of results.
“With AI Mode, you can truly ask Search anything—from complex explanations about tech and electronics to comparisons that help with really specific tasks, like assessing insurance options for a new pet,” read the company’s blog.
The feature also includes visual place and product cards. Users searching for local businesses, like furniture shops or salons, will see helpful details such as ratings, reviews, and opening hours.
“For example, if you’re looking for the best vintage shops for mid-century modern furniture, AI Mode will show local stores along with helpful insights like live busyness, and you can easily call or get directions,” it added.
Similarly, product-related queries will leverage Google’s Shopping Graph, which updates over 2 billion listings per hour and spans more than 45 billion products globally.
Google’s move is seen as a response to the growing popularity of generative AI-based search platforms such as OpenAI, which recently introduced a shopping-focused upgrade to its ChatGPT web search capabilities.
Edited by Suman Singh