Google is making waves in the search engine world by opening up access to its highly anticipated AI Mode in Search and rolling out exciting new features. This major update-now available to all users in the United States via Search Labs-removes the previous waitlist and introduces a more intelligent, interactive, and personalized way to find information online.
What Is Google’s AI Mode in Search?
AI Mode in Google Search is an innovative feature that uses advanced artificial intelligence to answer complex and nuanced questions. Unlike standard search results, which typically provide a list of links, AI Mode delivers structured, AI-generated responses that pull together information from multiple sources. Users can ask follow-up questions and refine their search in a natural, conversational way, making it easier to get comprehensive answers quickly.
This mode leverages Google’s latest advancements in AI, including multimodal input processing and advanced reasoning, to offer deeper analysis and more relevant results. Whether you’re comparing products, planning a trip, or researching local businesses, AI Mode is designed to deliver clear, actionable insights.
New Features in AI Mode
With the expanded rollout of AI Mode, Google has introduced several new features to enhance the search experience:
- Visual Cards:
AI Mode now presents information in the form of visual cards, replacing the traditional blue links. These cards offer curated, AI-generated summaries, including ratings, reviews, hours, and menus for local businesses. For product searches, users see shoppable cards with real-time prices, promotions, images, shipping details, and local inventory status. - AI History Panel:
A new history panel on the left side of the screen allows users to revisit and build upon previous searches. This feature is especially useful for ongoing projects or research, as it lets users pick up where they left off without starting over. - Enhanced Shopping Experience:
When searching for products, AI Mode displays up-to-date pricing, current promotions, shipping information, and in-stock status at nearby stores. This makes it easier for users to compare options and make informed purchasing decisions. - Deeper Local Insights:
For local searches, AI Mode surfaces detailed information such as live busyness, contact options, and directions, all within the visual card interface. This helps users quickly find and evaluate local businesses.
How Does AI Mode Work?
AI Mode is designed to handle complex, multi-part queries. Users can ask highly specific questions-such as “Which pet insurance covers exotic animals and has good customer service?”-and receive detailed, structured answers. The system supports follow-up questions, so users can refine their search or dig deeper into a topic without starting over.
The AI draws on Google’s vast and constantly updated knowledge base, including the Shopping Graph, which features over 45 billion product listings updated hourly. This ensures that the information provided is both current and reliable.
Who Can Access AI Mode?
As of May 2025, AI Mode is available to all users in the United States through Search Labs, with no waitlist required. Google is also testing a dedicated AI Mode tab in Search for select users, signaling plans for broader integration into the main Google Search experience in the near future.
To access AI Mode, users simply need to visit Search Labs or ensure they have the latest version of the Google app. The expansion is currently limited to users aged 18 and older in the U.S., but further international rollouts are expected as the feature matures.
Why Is This Expansion Significant?
The expansion of AI Mode marks a major milestone in the evolution of search technology. By integrating advanced AI capabilities directly into Search, Google is not only improving the quality and relevance of search results but also transforming the way users interact with information online. The new features-especially visual cards and persistent search history-offer a more intuitive, engaging, and productive search experience.
This move also positions Google to better compete with emerging AI-powered search platforms like Perplexity AI and OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search, which are gaining popularity for their conversational and context-aware capabilities.
How to Make the Most of AI Mode
To get the most out of AI Mode, users can:
- Ask detailed, specific questions to take full advantage of the AI’s advanced reasoning.
- Use follow-up queries to refine results or explore related topics.
- Take advantage of visual cards for quick, actionable insights on local businesses and products.
- Use the history panel to revisit and expand on previous searches, supporting ongoing research or planning.
Looking Ahead
Google’s commitment to expanding and enhancing AI Mode reflects a broader trend in the tech industry: integrating AI tools into everyday digital experiences. As AI Mode continues to evolve, users can expect even more features that make search smarter, more personalized, and more interactive.
In summary:
Google’s expanded availability of AI Mode in Search, along with its new features, is setting a new standard for how we find and use information online. By focusing on user needs and leveraging cutting-edge AI, Google is making it easier than ever to find, evaluate, and act on information in a rapidly changing digital world.
