Google Search AI Mode: Ask Complex Questions

Google Introduces Experimental “AI Mode” in Search

Google has initiated the rollout of a new, experimental feature called “AI Mode” within its Search engine. This development positions Google to compete directly with platforms like Perplexity AI and OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search.

The tech corporation revealed on Wednesday that this innovative mode is engineered to facilitate users in posing intricate, multi-faceted questions and pursuing follow-up inquiries. This allows for a more thorough exploration of topics directly within the Google Search interface.

Availability and Underlying Technology

AI Mode is currently being deployed to subscribers of Google One AI Premium, beginning this week. Access is granted through Search Labs, Google’s dedicated platform for experimental features.

The feature leverages a specialized iteration of the Gemini 2.0 model. It proves particularly beneficial when addressing questions demanding deeper investigation and comparative analysis, due to its sophisticated reasoning, analytical, and multimodal capabilities.

As an example, a user might inquire: “What are the distinctions in sleep tracking capabilities among a smart ring, a smartwatch, and a tracking mat?”

AI Mode can then furnish a comprehensive comparison of the features offered by each product type, accompanied by links to the source articles used to compile the information. Further exploration is enabled through follow-up questions, such as: “How is your heart rate affected during deep sleep?”

Enhanced Search Capabilities

Google highlights that previously, obtaining detailed comparisons or exploring novel concepts through conventional searches often necessitated multiple queries.

AI Mode grants access to web content, alongside real-time data sources like the Knowledge Graph, information pertaining to the real world, and product data encompassing billions of items.

User Engagement and Future Development

Robby Stein, VP of Product at Google Search, shared with TechCrunch that initial testing reveals users are posing questions approximately twice the length of typical searches. Furthermore, they are engaging in follow-up questioning around 25% of the time.

“This indicates a desire for tackling more challenging questions, those requiring iterative exploration,” Stein explained. “We believe this expands the potential of Google Search, and that’s what we’re most enthusiastic about.”

The introduction of AI Mode follows the release of AI Overviews, which presents a concise summary of information at the top of search results. User feedback indicated a demand for AI-powered responses across a broader range of searches, prompting the development of AI Mode.

Technical Implementation

AI Mode employs a “query fan-out” technique. This involves simultaneously issuing multiple related searches across diverse data sources, consolidating the results into a readily understandable response.

Prioritizing Accuracy and Transparency

“The model has been trained to prioritize factual accuracy and substantiate its claims with verifiable information,” Stein stated. “It also exercises heightened caution in sensitive areas, such as health, and may provide a list of web links when confidence is low.”

He acknowledged the potential for errors, inherent in new and advanced AI technologies.

Accessing and Utilizing AI Mode

Google One AI Premium subscribers can access AI Mode by enabling it within Search Labs. Users can then input a question in the Search bar and select the “AI Mode” tab. Alternatively, they can directly visit google.com/aimode.

On mobile devices, the “AI Mode” icon is accessible below the Search bar within the Google app’s home screen.

Additional Updates

Alongside the AI Mode announcement, Google revealed the launch of Gemini 2.0 for AI Overviews in the U.S. This upgrade enhances AI Overviews’ ability to address complex queries, including those related to coding, advanced mathematics, and multimodal inputs.

Furthermore, access to AI Overviews no longer requires users to be logged in, and the feature is now available to teenage users.