Google has made a significant update to its ai mode search tool, allowing it to be accessed by all US users (18+) enrolled in Google Labs. This development comes as part of Google’s efforts to expand its AI capabilities and improve the user experience. What’s New in AI Mode?
The update introduces several new features, including visual cards for places and products, shopping integration, and a history panel for desktop users. These enhancements aim to provide users with more comprehensive and interactive search results.
- Visual Cards for Places and Products
- Shopping Integration
- History Panel for Desktop Users
These features are designed to make it easier for users to find the information they need and take action after getting results.
“Millions of people are using AI Mode in Labs to search in new ways. They’re asking longer, harder questions, using follow-ups to dig deeper, and discovering new websites and businesses.”
Google reports that early users have provided “incredibly positive feedback” about the tool, indicating that the new features are well-received. Visual Cards for Places and Products
The update adds visual cards to AI Mode results, which provide users with more detailed and actionable information. For local businesses, cards include:
• Ratings and reviews
• Opening hours
• How busy a place is right now
• Quick buttons to call or get directions
These cards help users take action after getting information, making it easier for them to find what they need. Shopping Integration
The update also includes shopping integration, which allows users to find products and services more easily. This feature is made possible by Google’s trusted and up-to-date info about local businesses and its Shopping Graph — with over 45 billion product listings. History Panel for Desktop Users
Google has added a new left-side panel on desktop that saves your past AI Mode searches. This helps with ongoing research projects and allows users to:
• Return to previous search topics
• Pick up where you left off
• Ask follow-up questions
• Take the next steps based on what you found earlier
Availability
To access AI Mode, you need:
• To be in the United States
• To be at least 18 years old
• The latest Google app or Chrome browser
• Search history turned on
You can access AI Mode through google.com/aimode, the Google.com homepage (tap AI Mode below the search bar), or the Google app. What This Means for Digital Marketers
For SEO and marketing professionals, these updates signal several trends:
• Visual content is becoming increasingly important as Google improves its ability to understand and display images in search results. • Local SEO remains critical, with business details appearing directly in AI Mode responses. • As AI Mode pulls from Google’s Shopping Graph, product data feeds must be accurate and complete. • Long-form content addressing complex questions may become more valuable, as AI Mode is better equipped to handle longer, more nuanced queries. Financial Context
Google’s investment in AI search is reflected in its recent earnings reports, which indicate that investments in AI are yielding financial returns. Despite concerns that AI might harm traditional search, Google Search revenue increased 10% to $50.7 billion in Q1 2025. This suggests that AI is helping, not hurting, their core business. Future Plans
Google plans to test AI Mode beyond the Labs environment, with a small percentage of people in the U.S. seeing the AI Mode tab in Search. This indicates that Google is moving cautiously toward broader integration. Technical Details
Google’s AI Mode utilizes a technology called “query fan-out.” This means it runs multiple searches at once across different topics and sources. It then combines this information into a comprehensive answer, providing links to sources. The system also supports image search. You can upload pictures and ask questions about them. It combines Google Lens, which identifies objects, with Gemini’s reasoning abilities to understand and explain what’s in the image. Conclusion
The expansion of AI Mode is a significant development for Google and its users. As AI continues to grow and evolve, marketing strategies must adapt to remain visible. By providing users with more comprehensive and interactive search results, Google is positioning itself for continued success in the AI-powered search market.
