At its highly anticipated I/O 2025 Developers Conference, Google unveiled one of its most transformative updates to Search in recent years—AI Mode. Designed to push the boundaries of how people interact with online information, AI Mode introduces a conversational, AI-powered experience directly into the familiar Google Search interface. It will roll out to users across the United States in the coming weeks.

What is AI Mode?

AI Mode is a new tab integrated into the Search bar that allows users to interact with Google more like a chatbot and less like a traditional keyword-driven search engine. This new experience is powered by a custom version of Gemini, Google’s advanced generative AI model, which pulls from a vast array of sources and responds to complex queries with natural language, insights, visuals, and citations.

The feature builds on the momentum of AI Overviews, which Google introduced in 2024 and which reshaped how AI-generated content appears in search results. Now, with AI Mode, Google takes a significant leap forward—offering a standalone, immersive way to explore the web that goes beyond link-based results.

“This is the future of Google Search—a search that goes beyond information to intelligence,” said Elizabeth Reid, Google’s Vice President and Head of Search.

Key Features of AI Mode

1. Conversational Search with Deeper Understanding

AI Mode transforms the way users input queries. Instead of typing “best smartphones under 30K,” users might now say, “I’m looking for a reliable phone with a great camera and battery life under ₹30,000—preferably something good for travel photography.” The AI will respond with a contextual answer, follow-up questions, and personalized recommendations.

2. Query Fan-Out for Complex Questions

AI Mode uses a method called query fan-out, which allows it to break down complex questions into smaller components. This means that if you're researching a topic like “sustainable living for beginners in urban India,” AI Mode can simultaneously explore lifestyle choices, product alternatives, and city-specific resources to provide a rich, multi-layered response.

3. Integration with Google Apps

One of the most powerful aspects of AI Mode is its optional integration with other Google services such as Gmail and Calendar. For instance, if you're planning a trip and search for “restaurants in Mumbai,” AI Mode might consider your flight details or hotel booking from Gmail and suggest options nearby. This contextual layering creates a highly personalized experience, though users retain full control to disconnect app integration if preferred.

4. Deep Search Function

Launching later this year, Deep Search will leverage Google’s AI reasoning model to scan hundreds of related queries and deliver in-depth answers complete with sources. This will be particularly useful for researchers, students, and professionals looking for trusted, detailed information in less time.

5. AI-Powered Shopping and Virtual Try-On

Google is bringing an intelligent, interactive twist to e-commerce. Users will be able to describe their preferences conversationally—like “I need a summer dress in pastel shades under ₹2,000 for a beach wedding”—and receive curated results. Some products will also offer a virtual try-on feature powered by AI to enhance online shopping.

6. Data Visualization in Real-Time

For questions around finance, sports, or any data-heavy topic, AI Mode will soon introduce features to create real-time graphs and visual breakdowns. For example, you could ask, “Show me Virat Kohli’s performance across IPL seasons,” and receive an interactive chart sourced from trusted databases.

Why It Matters

Google’s move with AI Mode signals its intention to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of AI-powered search. As consumer habits change and users grow more comfortable with conversational interfaces like ChatGPT and Gemini, expectations for intuitive and intelligent interactions are rising. Google’s own data shows that users are now asking longer, more layered questions—and expecting relevant, personalized responses quickly.

CEO Sundar Pichai emphasized during the keynote that AI Mode represents Google's “frontier capabilities,” where the most advanced tools and models will be deployed before being folded into core services.

And that’s key—Google isn’t just testing AI Mode in isolation. Over time, many of its features will be integrated directly into the regular Search experience. This means AI-powered search won’t be an optional extra; it will become the default.

The Bigger Picture

As the race to dominate AI intensifies—with players like Microsoft (through OpenAI) and Meta advancing rapidly—Google’s AI Mode offers a compelling response. It reimagines the foundational tool that made Google a household name and positions it as a next-gen gateway to the internet.

While AI Mode offers exciting possibilities, it also raises questions about privacy, data usage, and the growing dependence on generative AI for everyday information. Google has stated that users will have control over app integrations and visibility into how responses are generated. But as this new mode becomes central to how people search, the balance between convenience and transparency will remain in focus.

With AI Mode, Google is redefining what search looks like in the age of generative AI—making it more intuitive, personal, and intelligent. Whether you're shopping, planning travel, exploring hobbies, or diving into deep research, the way you interact with the internet is about to change dramatically.