Introduction to AI Mode in Google Search
Google has made a significant update to its search engine by removing the waitlist for AI Mode, making it available to all users in the United States. This feature, powered by Gemini, introduces a new way of searching and provides more comprehensive results. The update includes new features such as visual cards for places and products, shopping integration, and a history panel for desktop users.
AI Mode Now Available to All US Users
Previously, AI Mode was only available to participants in Google Labs. However, due to the incredibly positive feedback from early users, Google has decided to make it available to everyone in the US. The company reports that millions of people are using AI Mode to search in new ways, asking longer and more complex questions, and discovering new websites and businesses.
New Visual Cards for Places and Products
The update adds visual cards to AI Mode results, making it easier for users to take action after getting information. For local businesses, cards show ratings and reviews, opening hours, how busy a place is, and quick buttons to call or get directions. For products, cards include current prices and deals, product images, shipping details, and local store availability. This feature is made possible by Google’s trusted and up-to-date information about local businesses and its Shopping Graph, which has over 45 billion product listings.
History Panel for Continuous Research
Google has added a new left-side panel on desktop that saves past AI Mode searches, making it easier for users to continue their research. The panel allows users to return to previous search topics, pick up where they left off, ask follow-up questions, and take the next steps based on what they found earlier.
Limited Test Outside of Labs
Google plans to test AI Mode beyond the Labs environment, with a small percentage of users in the US seeing the AI Mode tab in Search. This indicates that the company is moving cautiously towards broader integration.
AI Mode Capabilities
Google’s AI Mode utilizes a technology called "query fan-out," which runs multiple searches at once across different topics and sources, combining the information into a comprehensive answer. The system also supports image search, allowing users to upload pictures and ask questions about them. This combines Google Lens, which identifies objects, with Gemini’s reasoning abilities to understand and explain what’s in the image.
AI Investment Reflected in Earnings
The expansion of AI Mode follows strong financial results from Google, with Search revenue increasing 10% to $50.7 billion in Q1 2025. The company plans to invest $75 billion in capital improvements in 2025, including infrastructure to support its AI features. This investment is expected to deliver four times more computing power using the same amount of energy.
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.
- Product data feeds must be accurate and complete, as AI Mode pulls from Google’s Shopping Graph.
- Long-form content addressing complex questions may become more valuable, as AI Mode is better equipped to handle longer, more nuanced queries.
- Google’s success with AI search, resulting in 10% revenue growth in Q1 2025, indicates that these features will continue to expand.
Availability
To access AI Mode, users need to be in the United States, be at least 18 years old, have the latest Google app or Chrome browser, and have search history turned on. AI Mode can be accessed through google.com/aimode, the Google.com homepage, or the Google app.
Conclusion
The removal of the waitlist for AI Mode in Google Search marks a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to integrate AI into its search engine. With its new features and capabilities, AI Mode is poised to change the way users search and interact with information online. As Google continues to invest in AI, digital marketers must adapt their strategies to remain visible and relevant in this new landscape. By understanding the trends and implications of AI Mode, marketers can better navigate the evolving search landscape and stay ahead of the competition.