Introduction to Google’s AI Updates
Google is making significant changes to its AI-powered features, including making Gemini 3 the default model for AI Overviews in markets where the feature is available. This update brings Gemini 3’s reasoning capabilities to AI Overviews, allowing for more accurate and helpful responses. Additionally, Google is introducing a direct path into AI Mode conversations, making it easier for users to access more in-depth information.
What’s New in Google’s AI Features
Gemini 3 for AI Overviews
The Gemini 3 upgrade brings the same reasoning capabilities to AI Overviews that previously powered AI Mode. This means that users will now have access to best-in-class AI responses directly in the results page for questions where it’s helpful. According to Robby Stein, VP of Product for Google Search, "We’re rolling out Gemini 3 as the default model for AI Overviews globally, so even more people will be able to access best-in-class AI responses, directly in the results page for questions where it’s helpful."
AI Overview to AI Mode Transition
Users can now ask a follow-up question right from an AI Overview and continue into AI Mode. The context from the original response carries into the conversation, so users don’t start over. Stein described the thinking behind the change, stating that "People come to Search for an incredibly wide range of questions – sometimes to find information quickly, like a sports score or the weather, where a simple result is all you need. But for complex questions or tasks where you need to explore a topic deeply, you should be able to seamlessly tap into a powerful conversational AI experience."
Why These Updates Matter
The updates make it easier for users to stay within AI-powered responses. When Gemini 3 arrived in AI Mode, it brought deeper query fan-out and dynamic response layouts. AI Overviews running on the same model could produce different citation patterns. This means that today’s update is an important one to monitor, as model changes can affect which pages get cited and how responses are structured.
Looking Ahead to Future Updates
Google says the updates are rolling out starting today, though availability may vary by market. Google previously indicated plans to add automatic model selection that routes complex questions to Gemini 3 while using faster models for simpler tasks. Whether that affects AI Overviews beyond today’s default model change isn’t specified.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Google’s updates to its AI-powered features are significant and will likely have a major impact on how users interact with the search engine. The introduction of Gemini 3 as the default model for AI Overviews and the direct path into AI Mode conversations will make it easier for users to access more accurate and helpful information. As Google continues to roll out these updates, it will be important to monitor how they affect the user experience and the search engine’s overall performance. With over one billion users now having access to AI Overviews, these updates have the potential to revolutionize the way we search for information online.