Google is reportedly testing AI Mode, a new feature designed to enhance Search by handling more open-ended and complex questions. According to 9to5Google, the company has invited employees to internally test this tool, which integrates AI Overviews with the Gemini chatbot interface. If testing goes well, AI Mode could soon become a major addition to Google Search.
A Smarter Way to Search
AI Mode appears as a separate tab alongside existing filters like News, Images, and Shopping. Unlike traditional search results, this feature generates detailed responses by analyzing multiple sources and reasoning through queries. A leaked screenshot shows AI Mode answering a question about how much spaghetti is needed for a large group, factoring in portion sizes for both adults and children.
The tool seems designed to assist with questions requiring deeper analysis rather than quick factual answers. For example, test users were asked to compare different jacket materials based on insulation and durability or to explore the essentials of aquascaping. This suggests AI Mode aims to provide well-structured, informative responses for users seeking more than just a list of links.
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How AI Mode Could Change Search
One of the biggest changes with AI Mode is its layout. It reportedly takes up the entire search results page, pushing traditional links further down or even replacing them. A small module on the right side displays links to three sources, presumably where the AI pulled its information.
This shift raises concerns among publishers and website owners. AI-generated overviews have already reduced traffic to many sites, and AI Mode’s full-page responses could further limit direct visits. However, Google appears to be positioning this feature for research-based queries rather than transactional searches, which could help balance the impact.
Google’s Expanding AI Ecosystem
AI Mode is the latest step in Google’s ongoing push to integrate AI across its platforms. The company has already embedded its Gemini AI into Search, Android devices, Google Workspace, and even TVs. Recently, Google announced Gemini 2.0 Pro, an upgraded model designed for complex reasoning and advanced coding.
By incorporating AI more deeply into Search, Google aims to keep up with the evolving landscape of online queries. Users increasingly expect more than just a list of links—they want direct, well-reasoned answers tailored to their specific needs. AI Mode could help Google maintain its dominance in search while competing with other AI-powered tools in the market.
What’s Next for AI-Powered Search?
As internal testing continues, Google has not yet confirmed an official launch date for AI Mode. However, given the rapid expansion of AI across its ecosystem, it’s likely that public testing will follow soon.
If AI Mode successfully enhances user experience without alienating content creators, it could mark a major shift in how people interact with search engines. Whether this change will be welcomed by publishers remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Google’s vision for the future of Search is increasingly AI-driven.
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