Google Search introduces ‘AI Mode’ for asking complex, multi-part questions.
Google Introduces AI Mode: A New Way to Search
Google has recently announced a new feature called "AI Mode," which is being tested as part of their Search functionality. This innovative mode aims to compete with well-known AI services like Perplexity AI and OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search. This feature allows users to ask complex questions and receive thorough answers without having to run multiple searches.
What is AI Mode?
AI Mode is being introduced to Google One AI Premium subscribers. This feature is part of Google’s experimental area, called Search Labs, which is designed to explore new ideas and technologies. The backend of AI Mode is powered by a version of Google’s Gemini 2.0 technology. This advanced AI can answer questions that have multiple parts or require deeper exploration of a topic.
For example, if you want to know about sleep tracking options, you could ask: “What’s the difference in sleep tracking features between a smart ring, smartwatch, and tracking mat?” AI Mode would provide you with a detailed comparison of each product’s features and even include links to related articles for further reading. You can also ask follow-up questions, such as: “What happens to your heart rate during deep sleep?” to continue your inquiry seamlessly.
Image Credits: Google
How Does AI Mode Work?
In traditional searches, users often had to enter several queries to compare different options or to gather more information on a topic. AI Mode changes that. This feature not only delivers web content but also uses real-time data from various sources, like the Knowledge Graph, and offers information on millions of products available online.
Robby Stein, Vice President of Product at Google Search, explained how users are engaging with AI Mode. He noted that people are asking questions that are generally longer than typical search queries and often follow up with additional questions. This indicates that users are eager to tackle more complex inquiries that require back-and-forth interactions.
Advanced Search Capabilities
AI Mode uses a unique approach termed “query fan-out.” This technique allows the system to carry out several related searches at the same time across different data sources. The results are then merged into a single, easier-to-understand response.
Stein emphasized that the AI has been designed to prioritize accuracy. It strives to back up its answers with verifiable information. For sensitive topics, like health-related inquiries, if the AI is not completely confident in its response, it will provide users with a list of relevant links instead. While AI Mode is built to be useful and dependable, users should remain aware that, like any new technology, it has the potential to make mistakes.
Image Credits: Google
Future Enhancements
As AI Mode is still in the experimental stage, Google is keen on refining the user experience and expanding its functionality. The company is working on making the interface more visual and improving the way information is presented, incorporating user-generated content, and determining when to include hyperlinks. For example, it might add links to book tickets or prioritize videos when users search for how-to information.
How to Access AI Mode
For Google One AI Premium subscribers, accessing AI Mode is simple. Users can opt into Search Labs and enter their questions into the Search bar, selecting the “AI Mode” tab for enhanced responses. They can also go directly to google.com/aimode. On mobile devices, users can open the Google app and tap the “AI Mode” icon beneath the Search bar to get started.
Additional Announcements
Along with the announcement of AI Mode, Google unveiled that it has launched Gemini 2.0, enhancing its AI Overviews. This feature is designed to assist with more complex inquiries, such as coding challenges and advanced mathematics, using multimodal queries. Notably, Google has made AI Overviews accessible without requiring users to sign in, and it will soon be available to teenage users as well.
The introduction of AI Mode and improvements to AI Overviews signify Google’s commitment to enhancing the search experience, making it easier for users to find the information they need in a quicker and more efficient manner. By providing precise and detailed responses to complex queries, Google is paving the way for a more intuitive search process.
