Google is testing a major update to its search engine interface, which could steer more users towards an AI-powered search experience. This week, some users on the Google.com site observed that the “I’m Feeling Lucky” button beneath the search bar had been swapped out for a new one labeled “AI Mode.” Selecting the “AI Mode” option after entering a text query takes the user to an AI chatbot interface resembling ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini. Barron’s managed to explore the new design of Google’s home page this week. Google representatives have commented that the company ‘frequently tries out various ways for people to use our helpful features.’ There are many similar experiments too and this one is only available to Labs users. A ‘AI Mode’ button has recently appeared for some users accessing Google.com.
After typing a query, selecting “AI Mode” opens a chat interface like the one used by ChatGPT and Gemini. It is common for Google to perform tests on its products that its general users never get to experience. However, it looks like the company is paying proper attention to this test. In a recent interview, Sundar Pichai announced that Google could soon introduce AI Mode as a main feature for users. On the All-In podcast on Friday, Pichai explained that they are testing a new set-up called AI Mode for search.
In ‘AI Mode,’ you get to use AI for all your searching and follow up with further questions. Recently, Wall Street has been debating what Google’s search will look like in an AI-dominated future. Shares in the Alphabet Group dropped 6.9% in the previous week after Eddy Cue, an executive for Apple, stated in court that · searches through Apple’s Safari browser were down for the first time ever in April because of AI chatbots. The statement encouraged greater concern among investors that Google’s dominance in search could soon change. Shares have gone up by 9% this week as interest in tech has increased and investors get ready for Google I/O next week.
