Google announced the rollout of AI Mode, an AI chatbot that enhances Search queries by providing detailed answers generated by Gemini 2.0. This innovation represents Google’s response to the increasing popularity of AI-driven search experiences, similar to ChatGPT.
AI Mode allows users to pose questions and receive comprehensive AI-generated responses. Users can also ask follow-up questions or request additional links to learn more. For instance, when a user inquired about how déjà vu relates to memory, Gemini provided an extensive AI-generated answer comprising at least seven paragraphs.
In another scenario, a user seeking the best times for a photo shoot in Boston received a week’s weather forecast, including sunset times for optimal lighting conditions, and suggestions for less crowded times in the park. Users can continue the conversation by requesting further recommendations based on the initial responses.
Video: Google
Google emphasizes the uniqueness of AI Mode, highlighting the integration of advanced AI capabilities with its vast knowledge base, making it capable of delivering precise and high-quality content. However, the company warns that responses may sometimes present information that appears subjective or personified.
Currently, AI Mode is undergoing testing and is exclusively available to Google One AI Premium subscribers for $20 per month. Even for these users, activation requires manually enabling the feature through Google Labs. Google intends for AI Mode to be rolled out to a broader audience in the future.
For users who prefer traditional search results without AI input, Google has ensured that AI Mode is not a default setting. It can be accessed through a dedicated tab on the app or website, requiring users to actively seek out this experience.
Expanding AI capabilities in Search
Google’s blog post detailed enhancements to AI Overviews, which are now utilized by more than a billion users. The newly launched Gemini 2.0 aims to improve responses to complex queries, covering topics such as coding and advanced mathematics.
Google reported that AI Overviews would be available to more users, including teenagers, and that no sign-in will be necessary for access. The introduction of AI Mode is a response to user feedback indicating a desire for more advanced AI-supported answers for diverse search queries.
AI Mode, powered by Gemini 2.0, aims to handle intricate inquiries that require thorough exploration and reasoning. Users can ask complicated, multi-part questions and receive not only answers but also links for further information.
Video: Google
By employing a technique known as “query fan-out,” AI Mode simultaneously conducts multiple related searches across various data sources, merging the results into cohesive responses that provide both breadth and depth of information.
For example, an inquiry regarding sleep tracking features from different types of devices would elicit a multi-step response plan, evolving as new findings emerge. Users may also probe deeper with follow-up questions to obtain further insights.
This new mode integrates Gemini 2.0’s capabilities with Google’s extensive information systems, including real-time sources like the Knowledge Graph and shopping data. Internal feedback from testers has indicated that AI Mode is valuable for its speed and response quality.
Google is committed to enhancing factual accuracy in AI responses and plans to address potential quality issues based on user feedback during this testing phase. Future updates will include capabilities such as more visual content, richer formatting, and varied access to web content.
The limited testing phase for AI Mode has begun, inviting Google One AI Premium subscribers to provide feedback as the feature evolves. Google anticipates additional developments and enhancements in the coming months.
Featured image credit: Google
