Google has opened its AI Mode search feature to all U.S. users through Google Labs this May 2025. This major update, powered by Gemini 2.0, changes how people find information online by showing visual cards instead of just links.
“We are really enabling, helping you shop and seek local businesses, and plan your travel much better,” explains Soufi Esmaeilzadeh, Google’s director of Search product management.
The difference is clear when you use it. Looking for a restaurant? AI Mode shows ratings, hours, and reviews in one visual card. Shopping for something? You’ll see current prices, shipping information, and even which nearby stores have the item in stock.
AI Mode handles complex questions that normal search can’t. For example, type “best foldable camping chair that would fit in a backpack for under $100” and you’ll get specific recommendations that match all those requirements, not just random camping chair links.
A new feature stores your past searches in a panel on the left side of your screen. This helps people continue research projects over time without starting over. Early users specifically asked for this function.
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Google is also testing a dedicated AI Mode tab in the Google Search app for a small percentage of U.S. users outside of Labs, signaling confidence in the technology.
While AI Mode is useful, it raises concerns for website owners. When Google provides answers directly in search results, fewer people might click through to their sites. Google claims its AI features actually increase the diversity of visited sites for complex queries, but publishers remain worried.
Other companies offer similar tools, including ChatGPT, Perplexity AI, and Bing Copilot. Google’s edge comes from its massive, constantly updated information database, especially for shopping and finding local businesses.
The company is betting big on this technology, investing $75 billion in capital improvements during 2025, partly for AI features. So far, the strategy seems to work – Google’s Search revenue grew 10% in early 2025 despite strong competition.
Anyone interested can try AI Mode immediately through Google Labs. For the best experience on phones, Google recommends using their app on Android or iOS, which also lets you search using pictures.
