Google unveils AI Mode search: A smarter search experience powered by AI Overviews

Google on Wednesday introduced a new experimental feature in Search called AI Mode Search. Built on a custom version of the Gemini 2.0 model, this addition aims to change how people interact with search by making it more conversational and multimodal. With AI Overviews already reaching over a billion users, AI Mode Search takes things further by handling complex questions in a more dynamic way.

In a post on X, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai shared that AI Overviews are among the most popular features in Search, continuously improving as models advance. With Gemini 2.0 now powering responses for coding, advanced math, and multimodal queries in the U.S., the experience is more powerful than ever—with even more upgrades on the horizon.

“Today, we’re also introducing our newest Labs experiment for Search: AI Mode. You’ll get AI responses using Gemini 2.0’s advanced reasoning, thinking, multimodal capabilities + new ways to explore even more of the web,” Pichai said.

Starting today, AI Mode is rolling out to Google One AI Premium subscribers. You can opt in through Labs. Like AI Overviews, AI Mode will continue to improve with time and user feedback.

We’re rolling out AI Mode to Google One AI Premium subscribers today, opt in on Labs. And just like AI Overviews, AI Mode will get better with time and feedback. Get details here: https://t.co/k9qfHH83HI

— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) March 5, 2025

What is Google AI Mode Search?

AI Mode Search is Google’s latest step in generative AI, designed to answer detailed and multi-part questions that standard search often struggles with. Instead of just showing a list of links or a summary, it generates a full-page response based on the query. Integrated directly into Google Search, it allows users to ask follow-up questions, dig deeper into topics, and get a mix of real-time web data and advanced reasoning.

For example, if someone asks, “What’s the best time this week for an outdoor photoshoot in Boston?” AI Mode can analyze real-time weather data, suggest the best day and time (such as golden hour), and provide additional links for further details. A query like, “How do migrating birds know where to go?” prompts the AI to break the question into smaller searches, piece together the findings, and present a clear answer—while also offering related topics to explore.

A key technique behind this is “query fan-out,” where the AI runs multiple searches in parallel across different sources and brings everything together into one response. AI Mode goes beyond AI Overviews by offering improved reasoning, multimodal capabilities (like images and voice), and a chat-like interface that supports ongoing conversation.

How It Works and Who Can Access It

AI Mode fits into Google Search like any other filter. Users type a query, then tap the “AI Mode” button next to existing options like Images or Videos. It can also be accessed through a “Go deeper” shortcut in AI Overviews. Once activated, responses appear in a conversational format, with the original query at the top and a field for follow-up questions at the bottom.

To start, Google is rolling this out to Google One AI Premium subscribers in the U.S., who pay $19.99 per month. They can opt in through Search Labs, where Google tests experimental features. The initial focus is on users who frequently search for AI-driven answers, particularly those who already add “AI” to their queries. While access is currently limited, Google plans to expand it over time, though no timeline has been set.

Why AI Mode Matters

This move signals a shift in how people search for information. Traditional search is great for raw data—links, snippets, and ads—but it often leaves users piecing things together themselves. With the rise of AI-based assistants like ChatGPT and Perplexity, Google has felt the pressure to evolve. AI Mode is its response, combining access to web data from sources like the Knowledge Graph and Shopping Graph with Gemini 2.0’s ability to process information and reason through complex queries.

AI Overviews, which launched widely in 2024, already serve over a billion users. With Gemini 2.0 enhancing these Overviews—starting with coding, advanced math, and multimodal queries—Google has seen more engagement. People ask longer, more specific questions and spend more time on Search. AI Mode builds on this by catering to deeper research needs, such as comparing sleep-tracking devices or understanding abstract concepts, all in a seamless experience.

Challenges and Future Potential

Like any AI-powered tool, AI Mode comes with challenges. Google acknowledges that early-stage AI can misinterpret intent or introduce bias, even when aiming for objectivity. During this testing phase, the company plans to fine-tune the feature based on user feedback. Upcoming updates may include richer visuals (like images and videos), improved formatting, and new ways to link back to web content.

The long-term vision is ambitious. AI Mode could turn Search into an active assistant rather than just a tool for pulling up links. Future updates may handle more complex tasks, such as planning trips, troubleshooting tech issues, or summarizing research, all while keeping information fresh and reliable.

What’s Next?

Google’s launch of AI Mode Search marks an important shift in its approach to AI-powered search. As testing continues with Google One AI Premium subscribers, the company will refine the experience based on user behavior and feedback. Those interested in joining the waitlist can sign up on Google’s Search Labs page.

This feature represents a major evolution in how people find information. Whether someone is casually searching or relying on AI for more in-depth research, AI Mode hints at a future where getting answers feels more like having a conversation.