Google starts internal testing of its new ‘AI mode’ inside Search

Google is working on a new “AI Mode” that will give users a more interactive, intuitive search experience. Already being tested with staff, the feature will provide a “persistent place” where users can pose open-ended, exploratory questions and be given generated AI answers in an overview or research summary format.

Driven by Google Gemini 2.0, AI Mode is meant to answer better more in-depth questions not sufficiently answered through the standard search.

As per an internal email seen by 9to5Google, the AI Mode aims to revolutionize the manner in which users interact with Google Search, enabling more conversational and follow-up-oriented interactions. The mode is intended to address questions that involve extensive reasoning or comparative analysis, including recommendations on product selection or in-depth research on a particular subject.

Google sees AI Mode as a mechanism for approaching questions that would be challenging for existing search results to manage. Some examples of questions that the feature is meant to answer are real-world, situation-based questions such as

“How much spaghetti should I purchase to serve 6 adults and 10 kids, with seconds?”

or

“Compare wool, down, and synthetic jackets in terms of insulation, water resistance, and durability.”

Additionally, the AI Mode would support follow-up questions, such as asking, “What are some nearby stores to buy supplies?”

after an initial inquiry about a hobby like aquascaping.

The AI Mode will provide “intelligently researched” answers, presenting information in concise, easy-to-understand breakdowns. The summaries will be supplemented by links to further resources, allowing users to explore related material on the web quickly and easily.

The feature is enabled with a custom build of Google’s Gemini 2.0, the next-generation AI technology that is specifically developed for sophisticated reasoning and enhanced contextual insight.

While still in the initial stages, Google has already shown its employees a screenshot of the desktop version, and the feature will also extend to mobile platforms.

Google’s venture into this AI-driven search model is part of a larger trend towards incorporating artificial intelligence into search engines to serve more sophisticated, nuanced user requests.

As AI capabilities continue to expand, this new AI Mode seeks to turn Google Search from merely an information-finding tool into an interactive guide that can walk users through in-depth questions and follow-ups, all with seamless integration into the wider web.