Major Changes in Search: Google Combines AI Overview and AI Mode

This conversational feature, called AI Mode, was first launched in the U.S. in May and globally in August. AI Mode allows users to chat with Google’s Gemini AI, similar to ChatGPT.

Previously, users had to decide in advance whether to conduct a standard search or a more detailed query in AI Mode. Google is now testing whether both experiences need to remain separate, as users often want deeper exploration after a general search.

The new feature allows mobile users to directly access AI Mode from the search results page. Robby Stein, Google’s VP of Search Products, said users no longer need to plan their queries; they get an AI Overview first, then can follow up via conversational AI Mode on the same screen.

Stein added, “This brings our search closer to our goal: ask anything on your mind—any long or complex question—and get accurate answers.”

This feature could play a crucial role in Google’s competition with OpenAI, as Gemini AI surpassed 650 million monthly users in November. Combining AI Overview with conversational experiences may increase user adoption.