Google AI Mode Expansion: New Features & Access
Google Expands Access and Functionality of its AI Mode in Search
Google is broadening the availability of its experimental AI Mode feature. This allows users to pose intricate, multi-faceted questions and pursue related inquiries directly within the Google Search interface.
The technology company is simultaneously introducing enhanced capabilities to this feature. These improvements include the ability to seamlessly resume searches from a previous point.
Challenging Existing AI Search Services
Initially launched in March, AI Mode was developed as a response to growing popularity of services like Perplexity AI and OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search. The newly announced updates are intended to strengthen AI Mode’s competitive position against these alternatives.
The waitlist for accessing AI Mode is now being removed. Individuals in the U.S. aged 18 and older can gain access by enrolling in Labs, Google’s platform for experimental features.
Expanding Beyond Labs
Google is also preparing to make AI Mode more widely available outside of the Labs environment. Currently, a test is underway involving an AI Mode tab within Google Search, visible to a limited number of users in the U.S.
New Functionality: Beyond Basic Queries
The new features extend the functionality of AI Mode beyond simply answering detailed questions about locations and products. Users can now utilize it for tasks such as discovering new restaurants or identifying necessary items for an upcoming trip.
Visual cards displaying information about places and products will now appear within AI Mode. These cards can be selected for more comprehensive details.
Detailed Information at Your Fingertips
When researching local businesses, like restaurants or salons, users can quickly view essential details. This includes ratings, customer reviews, and operating hours.
For products, AI Mode will display real-time pricing, current promotions, images, shipping information, and local stock availability.
Practical Examples of AI Mode in Action
For instance, a search for “best vintage shops with midcentury modern furniture” using AI Mode can highlight nearby stores. It will also provide real-time information on store occupancy and offer quick access to calling or directions.
Alternatively, when planning a camping trip, a query like “best foldable camping chair that would fit in a backpack for under $100” will yield a curated list of recommended products. This list will include product specifications and links to retailers.
Seamless Continuation of Searches
Google is also enabling users to resume their work within AI Mode without losing progress. This is particularly useful for extended projects and tasks.
On desktop computers, a new panel on the left side of AI Mode allows users to access their previous searches. This provides access to previously provided information and facilitates follow-up questioning.
