Google has officially introduced and started testing a new AI Mode for Search, designed to handle complex queries by generating detailed, AI-driven responses. The feature, currently in its early testing phase in the United States, is expected to expand to other regions, including India, based on past rollout patterns.

This is not Google’s first step in integrating AI into Search. Last year, the company introduced AI Overview, initially launching it in the U.S. before expanding to other countries. Building on this foundation, the new AI Mode offers improved reasoning, deeper analysis, and multimodal capabilities, making search results more advanced and comprehensive.

According to Google, AI Mode enhances the AI Overview feature by using a customized version of Gemini 2.0, which enables users to ask complex questions and receive structured, AI-generated responses. The system also allows follow-up questions and provides links to relevant web content, making it easier for users to explore topics in depth. To achieve this, AI Mode uses a technique called "query fan-out", where multiple related searches are conducted across various data sources simultaneously to generate a more insightful and refined response.

To illustrate its capabilities, Google gave an example: If a user asks, "What’s the difference in sleep tracking features between a smart ring, smartwatch, and tracking mat?", the AI system takes a multi-step approach—first creating a plan, then searching for information, and finally adjusting its response based on the findings. Users can also ask follow-up questions like, "What happens to your heart rate during deep sleep?", and receive an easy-to-digest answer with links to relevant sources.

Early testers have responded positively to AI Mode, praising its speed, accuracy, and freshness. Now, Google is expanding the testing phase with a limited opt-in experience in Labs, allowing more users to try the feature and provide feedback. Built on Google’s core ranking and quality systems, AI Mode prioritizes AI-generated responses but switches to traditional web search results when confidence in accuracy is low.

Acknowledging that early-stage AI products are not always perfect, Google admitted that some responses may unintentionally reflect biases or take on a persona. The company emphasized that this testing phase will help identify and address such challenges while refining the user experience based on feedback.

Alongside these improvements, Google is also working on enhancing visual responses with images and videos, improving content formatting, and introducing new ways for users to access useful web content. Starting today, Google One AI Premium subscribers will be the first to try AI Mode in Labs. The company is eager to receive feedback and plans to introduce more updates soon.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Business Standard.