Google has expanded access to its experimental AI Mode in Search, offering new features and removing waitlists for U.S. users aged 18 and older.
The update, improves interactions by handling complex, multi-part questions more effectively. This development, led by Robby Stein, Google Search’s Vice President of Product, aims to compete with other AI-driven search tools.
Expanded Access and New Features
AI Mode was initially launched in March 2025 and now is available through Google’s Labs platform. The feature uses a custom Gemini 2.0 AI model to answer complicated queries by running several related searches simultaneously.
Users can pick up where they left off with previous searches using the new left-side panel on desktop. This functionality assists in continuing research or projects without losing prior information.
Google has introduced visual place and product cards that display details like ratings, opening hours, real-time prices, and availability. The feature can suggest nearby restaurants or product recommendations based on user queries.
Why It Matters
The launch signals Google’s commitment to integrating advanced AI to improve search experiences. It provides context-aware, detailed answers, positioning Google competitively among AI search platforms.
- Over a billion people have engaged with AI Overviews, a precursor to AI Mode.
- The waitlist for AI Mode has been removed, widening access in the United States.
- New capabilities include multi-part queries, follow-up questions, and interactive results.
- Advanced AI techniques like “query fan-out” enable gathering information from multiple sources at once.
The expansion targets improved user engagement through more nuanced searches and real-time information. For example, AI Mode helps users find vintage shops, assess product options, or plan trips with detailed support.
More about this innovation and its origin can be read in Google’s official announcement on their AI Mode update blog.
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