On Wednesday, Google Search announced the introduction of a new artificial intelligence (AI) feature known as AI Mode. The Mountain View-based technology company had been testing this feature internally last month and has now made it accessible to a select group of users. AI Mode is designed to provide comprehensive answers to complex queries that often require multiple searches, streamlining the process for users seeking detailed information.
Google Search Introduces AI Mode
In a blog post, Google outlined the capabilities of the newly launched AI Mode. This upgraded interface is said to enhance “advanced reasoning, thinking, and multimodal capabilities,” serving as an extension to the existing AI Overviews.
AI Mode is presently available to a limited number of users through Google Labs as part of an initial experimental phase. The company also indicated that it plans to invite Google One AI Premium subscribers to participate in this experience within Labs. Information on future availability for general Google Search users remains unconfirmed.
Users who opt into the AI Mode experience will notice this feature listed as a filter on the search results page, positioned prominently before categories such as All, Images, News, and Maps. Following a standard search query, users can easily switch to AI Mode with a tap of the filter.
This innovative tool is powered by Google’s custom Gemini 2.0 model and is particularly beneficial for inquiries that necessitate in-depth exploration, comparisons, or logical reasoning. It allows users to pose follow-up questions and showcases multimodal results, including images, tables, and relevant links to websites for further information.
The AI Mode employs a “query fan-out” technique, executing multiple related searches simultaneously across various sub-topics. It utilizes an array of data sources to present a thorough result in a format that is easy to digest. Compiled sources include web content, knowledge graphs, shopping data, and general real-world information, according to the company.
Google emphasized that AI Mode incorporates innovative techniques to enhance the accuracy of responses. Nonetheless, the company acknowledged that some replies may carry a particular viewpoint. Users granted access to the feature can provide feedback to assist in refining the tool further. Furthermore, Google noted that AI Mode will present web search results only in instances where it lacks high confidence in the quality and helpfulness of the information.
Upgrades to AI Overviews with New AI Model
The company is also enhancing its AI Overviews feature within Google Search, which delivers concise summaries of search results. This revamped version will utilize the Gemini 2.0 model, allowing it to tackle more intricate queries related to coding, advanced mathematics, and multimodal questions. Currently, this updated AI Overviews feature is accessible only in the United States.
Additionally, Google plans to broaden the availability of AI Overviews to more users, including teenagers using their accounts. These AI-generated summaries will also be visible to users who are not signed in to their Google accounts.
