Google Search’s AI Mode First Look And Details Leaked
In December of last year, Google confirmed that integrating AI into its search engine is its primary focus for the near future. That same month, a leak revealed the existence of an “AI Mode” for the service. Now, the first details of Google Search’s AI Mode have leaked, as well as an early look.
Leak offers first look and more specific details about Google Search’s AI Mode
As reported by 9to5Google, AI Mode is a “persistent place” to ask more “open-ended / exploratory questions.” Think of it as the natural evolution of AI Overviews, but with a UI tailored to give even greater prominence to artificial intelligence capabilities over traditional search results.
The option will use a “custom version” of Gemini 2.0, Google’s latest AI model. The outlet had access to an internal email inviting Google employees to try out the feature. The email says that AI Mode can “search intelligently research[ing] for you – organizing information into easy-to-digest breakdowns with links to explore content across the web.”
The company wants its AI Mode to be especially useful for queries that are “not well served by” currently. This could include queries related to advice for a very specific topic or for direct comparisons between product specs. Receiving these answers immediately saves time by eliminating the need to check out all the results.
“Talk” to Google as if it were a chatbot
The internal email includes some example questions where Search’s AI Mode can be useful. “How many boxes of spaghetti should I buy to feed 6 adults and 10 children, and have enough for seconds?” is one of them. This particular question reflects how very specific you can be about the details you want in the output. “Compare wool, down, and synthetic jackets in terms of insulation, water resistance, and durability” is an example of a comparison.
You will also ask questions as follow-ups to previous results. For example, if you search for, “What do I need to get started with aquascaping?” You can then ask, “What are some nearby stores to buy supplies?”
US Googlers already have access to Search’s AI Mode experience early on. It’s available for both desktop and mobile. There’s a revamped UI that puts more emphasis on the AI aspect, though it’s preliminary. Currently, “AI mode” is available alongside other filters like Images, News, Shopping, etc. The option will open a Gemini-like UI, closer to a chatbot than a traditional search engine. The sources used by AI mode to give the answer will be available on the right side of the UI.
There are no details yet on the feature’s wider availability. However, Google CEO Sundar Pichai recently said that “2025 is going to be one of the biggest years for Search innovation yet.” So, it’s possible that it will arrive this year.
