AI Mode by Google: What It Is and How to Use It

Google has launched a powerful new feature called AI Mode, marking a significant shift in how users interact with its search engine. Rather than delivering traditional lists of links, Google now provides users with natural, conversational answers directly in the search bar. This innovation reflects the company’s long-term vision of transforming its search engine into a more intelligent assistant.

First announced during the Google I/O 2025 developer conference, AI Mode is now available to all English-speaking users in the United States aged 13 and above, and to Google Workspace and Education users aged 18 and older.

More insights can be found in CNET’s live coverage of Google I/O 2025

What Is Google AI Mode?

AI Mode is a new experience layered into the existing Google Search platform. Instead of the usual text-based results, it provides detailed, dynamic responses through a conversational interface. These answers are powered by Google’s Gemini AI model, which can synthesize data from various sources and respond to complex queries in seconds.

Accessible as a new tab next to the usual “All”, “Images”, and “News” tabs on Google Search, AI Mode turns your search experience into something that resembles talking to a virtual assistant.

Key Features of AI Mode

1. Conversational Answers with Context

Users can ask nuanced, multi-part questions and receive tailored answers. For example:

“I’m traveling to Seattle this weekend with my family. Can you recommend kid-friendly restaurants near the Space Needle?“

AI Mode doesn’t just offer links — it presents thoughtful suggestions, complete with details like operating hours, maps, and customer reviews.

2. Query Fan-Out Technique

To process and understand queries better, Google introduced a method called the “query fan-out technique”. This breaks down one complex search query into multiple sub-queries, allowing the system to address each aspect of the request in detail. For instance:

• Search: “Best laptops under $800 for video editing”
• AI Mode breaks it into: performance specs, brand comparison, user reviews, and current prices

3. Integration with Gmail, Calendar, and Google Apps

AI Mode is expected to integrate with your Google ecosystem. With permission, it can access information from your Gmail or Calendar to provide context-rich answers.

Example:

If you’re asking for packing tips for a trip, and your Gmail has a flight confirmation, AI Mode might suggest packing based on your destination’s weather and trip duration.

Importantly, users can opt out of this feature at any time, ensuring privacy remains in the user’s control.

4. Deep Search Capability

Deep Search is designed for users who need comprehensive answers. AI Mode can scan hundreds of pages, synthesize data, and return a summarized, cited response within minutes. This is useful for:

• Academic research
• Policy comparisons
• Historical summaries

5. Smarter Online Shopping

AI Mode helps users navigate product searches conversationally. Whether you’re looking for eco-friendly running shoes or comparing features of smartphones, it can narrow down options. It also includes virtual try-on features for clothing, adding a layer of interactivity to online shopping.

6. Visual Data for Finance and Sports

When dealing with complex data sets, such as sports stats or stock prices, AI Mode can render graphs directly in the search interface. This allows users to view trends and analytics without visiting third-party websites.

This feature is expected to become widely available by summer 2025.

How AI Mode Is Changing User Behavior

The shift towards more conversational search is already happening. Instead of searching “best gifts for dad,” users might now write, “My dad loves history and puzzles. What would be a great Father’s Day gift for him?”

According to Elizabeth Reid, Vice President of Search at Google:

“Users are asking longer, more complex questions. Integrating generative AI allows us to move from just providing information to delivering real intelligence.”

This evolution is also evident in mobile browsing. AI Mode functions smoothly across devices, including in Safari on iOS.

Will AI Mode Replace Traditional Search?

The short answer is no, at least not for everything.

Eugene Levin, President of marketing analytics platform Semrush, expressed skepticism about AI Mode’s universality. He believes that while AI Mode is well-suited for deep, contextual searches, it may not be ideal for quick, factual lookups.

“The percentage of users who want to use AI Mode for every search will likely remain small. For simple queries, traditional search is still faster and more effective,” said Levin.

For instance:

• Looking for a movie release date? Standard search is more efficient.
• Comparing political candidates? AI Mode may provide deeper insights.

Levin also noted that even heavy users of tools like ChatGPT still rely on Google for high-trust, factual data like financial reports or government sources.

Is Google AI Mode the Future of Search?

According to Elizabeth Reid, Google’s Vice President of Search:

“This is the future of Google Search — a search that goes beyond information into intelligence.”

Google plans to migrate many AI Mode features eventually into the core search experience, meaning what is optional today may become the default shortly.

However, not everyone is convinced it will replace traditional search completely.

Eugene Levin, President of Semrush, stated:

“AI Mode is great for complex questions that require explanation, but for basic fact-finding, traditional search remains faster.”

This suggests that AI Mode will likely coexist with classic search, catering to different user needs.

Privacy and Ethical Considerations

While AI Mode offers powerful personalization, it also raises critical questions:

1. Data Privacy

Allowing AI access to Gmail and Calendar can enhance results, but it depends heavily on user trust. Google assures users that all integration features are optional and revocable.

2. Information Bias

Since AI Mode synthesizes information, the selection of sources becomes vital. There is growing concern about how AI determines which sources are credible or accurate, and whether that introduces algorithmic bias.

Google has officially launched AI Mode, a groundbreaking update that transforms the traditional search experience into a dynamic, conversational interaction. This new mode introduces a more natural way of retrieving information, powered by Gemini, Google’s most advanced generative AI.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Google AI Mode

For those new to this feature, here’s a simple step-by-step walkthrough on how to use AI Mode on Google:

1. Check Eligibility

Make sure:

• You are located in the United States
• Your account language is set to English
• You are aged 13+ (personal account) or 18+ (Workspace/Education)

2. Open Google Search

Go to www.google.com using your preferred browser on desktop or mobile.

3. Look for the “AI Mode” Tab

If your account has access, you will see a new AI Mode tab near the top of the search results page, alongside “All,” “Images,” “News,” etc.

If it doesn’t appear, ensure your browser is updated and you’re signed in with a supported Google account.

4. Ask Questions Naturally

Use conversational phrasing when you search. For example:

• “Where should I eat in New Orleans if I love jazz and seafood?”
• “Explain the difference between a 401(k) and a Roth IRA in simple terms.”

5. Read and Explore the AI Answer

AI Mode will present a detailed, paragraph-based answer, often with:

• Sources and citations
• Maps or product links
• Follow-up question suggestions

You can continue the conversation or refine the question without starting over.

6. Try Extra Features

• Use virtual try-on when shopping for clothes or accessories
• Ask for graphs or data summaries on sports or financial topics
• Allow Google to use your Gmail or Calendar (with permission) to tailor responses

7. Control Your Privacy

Visit your Google account settings to disconnect personal data like Gmail or Calendar from AI Mode if preferred. Google states users can opt out of integrations anytime.

Key Features of Google AI Mode

• Conversational Search: Get full-sentence answers instead of just links.
• Deep Search: Uses AI to break down complex queries and synthesize detailed responses.
• App Integration: Optionally pulls data from Gmail, Calendar, and other Google services.
• Shopping Assistant: Helps filter products, find deals, and simulate try-ons.
• Data Visualization: Generates charts for sports stats, financial trends, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is Google AI Mode available outside the U.S.?
Not yet. As of now, AI Mode is limited to English-language users in the United States.

Q2: Do I need a Gmail account to use it?
Yes, you need to be signed in to a supported Google account to access AI Mode.

Q3: Is this like ChatGPT?
Similar in format, but Google AI Mode is directly integrated into Google Search. It focuses more on web results, shopping, data, and your Google app ecosystem.

Q4: Is AI Mode free to use?
Yes, currently there is no cost. Google has not announced any paid plans for AI Mode at this time.

Q5: Is my data safe with AI Mode?
Google claims users are in control of their data and can opt out of app integrations. Still, users are advised to review Google’s privacy policy carefully.

Pros and Cons of Google AI Mode for Everyday Users

Final Thoughts

Google’s AI Mode is more than a feature — it’s a vision for how search should evolve. With its conversational tone, integration across Google services, and the power of the Gemini AI engine, it brings us closer to a future where search engines act more like personal assistants.

Still, users will need to strike a balance. For quick, transactional queries, traditional search may remain faster. But for complex questions or multi-layered tasks, AI Mode offers a new level of depth and usability.

Whether you’re curious, cautious, or ready to explore, one thing is certain: search as we know it is changing — and fast.

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