Google has added a new way to search. It is called AI Mode. It sits inside Google Search and answers complex questions in a single place. You can type, talk, or show an image.
You can ask follow-up questions. You get links to sources so you can dig deeper when you want. Think of it as a focused space for “searching with AI” rather than a list of blue links.
What makes AI Mode Special?
A regular search just shows a page of results. But AI Mode is more conversational. It breaks your big question into parts and searches for each part. Then it brings the pieces together in one clear response with helpful links.
This method, known as “query fan-out,” enables AI Mode to access more relevant pages across the web.
AI Mode is an enhanced version of AI Overviews. It can handle more complex questions and accepts voice and image inputs.
It aims to provide a stronger, more complete answer, enabling you to request further information.
Where to find AI Mode?
AI Mode is available in English in the US, UK, and India as of now. Google first launched it in the US then expanded to India and the UK. AI Mode has rolled out beyond Labs in India. It means you can access it directly in search.
How to open AI Mode
There are three simple ways to use it:
- Go to google.com/aimode
- Go to google.com, search for anything, then tap AI Mode below the search bar.
- Open the Google app on your phone and tap the AI Mode button on the home screen.
Tip: You can switch between AI Mode and the regular results. Tap All at the top to jump back to the standard list of links.
What questions can you ask?
You can ask different types of questions in AI mode, like:
- Plan and compare: You can ask questions like “3-day family trip plan to Vietnam”. This plan will include suggestions for activities with a budget and a packing list. AI can also adjust this plan according to your needs and provide links to book your trip.
- Learn faster: Feel free to ask questions like “Explain what vector databases do for AI apps. Plus, you can ask follow-ups like “Now compare Pinecone and Weaviate.” You will get these answers with references and source links.
- Shop with context: AI also helps you shop better using queries like “Best noise-canceling headphones under ₹15,000”. You can also ask for the pros and cons of the product with links to stores and reviews.
- Use images and voice: Point your phone at a plant and ask, “What is this and how do I take care of it?” You can also ask your question while walking around. This feature is widely used in India for everyday tasks.
How Does AI Mode Work?
When you ask a big question, AI Mode breaks it into smaller sub-topics. It runs multiple searches simultaneously and checks various sources. Then it writes a single answer and attaches links. But if it lacks confidence, it may show normal results instead.
This keeps answers grounded in the web. It is still early tech. It can make mistakes. Always click the links when it matters.
Tips to Get Better Answers
Use these simple habits:
- Give context: Add your budget, timeline, location, or taste.
- Ask follow-ups: Treat it like a chat. Nudge it closer to what you want.
- Use images: When a photo explains more than text, tap Lens and send it.
- Verify key facts: Validate the information from other sources before using.
How to Manage AI Mode
You can use AI Mode without saving your Search history. If you turn on Web & App Activity, you can pick up where you left off. You can also delete your AI Mode history at any time.
Go to AI Mode, open history, and remove items or clear all. Google says reviewers do not see data tied to your account and that personal details get removed before review. Still, for sensitive topics, double-check what you share.
Can you turn off AI Mode?
AI Mode is optional. You choose it by tapping the AI Mode tab or button. AI Overviews can still appear in the typical “All” results. If you prefer classic links, use the Web filter in Google to show plain web results.
Many users also add “Google Web” as a default search provider, so they always see link-only pages. Guides from Android Authority and others explain how to set that up.
Benefits of Using AI Mode?
- For students, workers, and teams
- Students: Turn a textbook chapter into key points. Then ask for a quiz and examples. Always open source links to learn more.
- Analysts: Request the list of markets for comparison in a SaaS launch. Then use the provided links to create a memo to compare them.
- Marketers: AI can also help you with travel plans or content summaries. Plus, it can refine it with more information while maintaining your style.
(b) For creators and SEO folks
AI search changes how people find your content online. Your page must now be easy to quote and trust. For this, you can use clear sections, add citations, use good headings, and answer the main question right away.
Add examples, steps, and data. Focus each page on one task. This helps your work get cited and clicked inside AI answers.
The Pros and Cons of Google’s AI Mode
Pros
- Handles long and messy questions.
- Accepts voice and images.
- Gives links and invites follow-ups.
Cons
- It can still be wrong, like any AI.
- It may miss nuance or context.
- Don’t rely on a single answer, as AI can sometimes be incorrect. Verify all information from credible sources beforehand.
What Powers AI Mode?
AI Mode uses Google’s latest Gemini models. In India, Google notes a custom Gemini 2.5 setup behind the scenes. This model improves reasoning and multimodal input. It works with Google’s index, Knowledge Graph, and shopping data to ground answers and supply fresh links.
Conclusion
AI Mode turns Google Search into a single place where you can ask, explore, and refine. It is fast and flexible. It works with text, voice, and images. It provides links for you to verify and investigate further.
Use it for big questions that would take many searches. Switch back to “Web” when you only want classic links. And always double-check facts that matter.
FAQs
Q1. Is AI Mode free?
Yes, for the default experience. Some advanced models and features may tie into paid AI tiers in Labs.
Q2. Do I need to sign in?
You don’t have to sign in to view answers. However, you will need to sign in to save your history and resume your search later on.
Q3. Can I trust its answer?
Use it as a smart guide. Check sources for anything important. AI Mode links out its sources so you can confirm if it’s legit.
Q4. How do I hide the AI Mode button on some Android widgets?
On some devices, you can customize the search box and hide the AI button. Options vary by device and Android version. The Google support community has threads on this.
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