Google’s AI Mode in Search is now available for free to all eligible users in the United States, eliminating the previous waitlist requirement. This update brings a variety of new features, including visual cards for products and locations that offer detailed information, along with a search history panel that allows users to easily revisit past queries. Initially launched in March, Google’s AI Mode is an experimental feature integrated into the Search platform, powered by a specialized version of Gemini 2.0. This new experience builds on AI Overviews, providing enhanced reasoning, multimodal capabilities, and the ability for users to engage in deeper, more nuanced conversations about search topics.
Previously available only to Google One AI Premium subscribers who opted in via Search Labs, the AI Mode is now free for everyone within 20 days of its initial launch. Although users still need to opt in to access the feature, they no longer have to join a waitlist. To enable the AI Mode, users can navigate to the New experiments/AI experiments section and turn it on. To enhance accessibility for users, Google has introduced a left-aligned panel similar to Gemini, showcasing previous searches.
This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals engaged in lengthy research tasks, as it aggregates information related to their topics, allowing for follow-up questions and next steps. Moreover, Google has fulfilled its promise to make AI Mode more visual. Users will now find images, location cards, and product cards in relevant searches, with expandable options for additional information. When searching for places like restaurants or stores, users will see key details such as ratings, reviews, and hours of operation.
Similarly, for product research, AI Mode presents shoppable options with real-time prices, images, shipping information, and local inventory availability. As part of its development, a select group of users will begin to see the AI Mode tab in Search, even if they haven’t opted into Labs. This move indicates Google’s intention to conduct broader testing before rolling out the feature universally. Additionally, a new AI Mode shortcut for the Google app Search widget is expected to be released soon, contingent on the next feature update.
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