Google is reportedly preparing to introduce a new “AI Mode” to its search engine, as detailed in a report by The Information. This feature will allow users to toggle to AI Mode via an option at the top of the search results page. Once enabled, the interface will resemble Google’s Gemini AI chatbot, offering a conversational approach to search.
According to The Information, the AI Mode tab will be positioned alongside existing options like “All,” “Images,” “Videos,” and “Shopping.” When users interact with AI Mode, Google is expected to provide a response that includes links to related web pages. Additionally, a search bar will appear beneath the conversational reply, inviting users to “Ask a follow-up…” and enabling a more interactive search experience.
This potential enhancement aligns with earlier observations by Android Authority, which identified signs of an AI Mode within a beta version of the Google app earlier this month. Further evidence came from 9to5Google, which uncovered code indicating that AI Mode may allow users to pose questions using voice commands. While these developments suggest an ambitious direction for Google’s search capabilities, the company has not officially confirmed the feature. The Verge attempted to contact Google for comment but had not received a response at the time of reporting.
The introduction of AI Mode comes as Google faces growing competition in the integration of artificial intelligence and search functionalities. OpenAI recently made its search feature within ChatGPT available to all users, heightening the competitive pressure. In response, Google has already been incorporating AI-driven search summaries into its platform, a feature that was expanded to several additional countries in October.
With these advancements, Google appears to be positioning itself as a leader in the evolving landscape of AI-enhanced search. However, the emergence of AI Mode could mark a significant step forward, potentially providing users with a more seamless and conversational search experience that integrates AI technology directly into the heart of Google’s search engine.