Google has launched its AI mode—a question-and-answer-style search feature—for users in India today. The company noted that the tool is still experimental, and users must opt in through Search Labs to access it.
Currently, the feature supports queries in English, and Google has not confirmed if or when local language support will be added.
Ask Complex Questions and Get Refined Answers
Once enrolled, users can ask complex, multi-layered questions like, My kids are 4 and 7 and have lots of energy. Suggest fun indoor activities for energetic kids on hot days that require minimal space and no costly toys. The tool also allows follow-up questions to help refine results.
Earlier this year, Google began testing AI mode with premium users in the U.S., before expanding access following its Google I/O event. Since then, the company has added features like shopping integration, voice and image search, and advertising.
Voice, Image Search Enabled; Longer Queries Observed
Google stated that voice and image search capabilities are available to users in India, recognizing the popularity of voice-based queries in the region. The AI mode is powered by a customized version of Gemini 2.5. The company also observed that early adopters are submitting queries that are two to three times longer than typical searches.
With over 870 million internet users, India represents one of Google’s largest markets and serves as a key testing ground to understand how multilingual users interact with its services.
Although Google continues to dominate the search market, more users are turning to AI-driven, chat-based platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity for everyday queries. Through AI mode, Google aims to attract users who prefer conversational interfaces to stay within its ecosystem.
AI Overviews Gain Users, But Impact Publisher Traffic
In addition to AI mode, Google has been promoting features like AI overviews, which provide summarized responses to search queries. As of April, the company reported that over 1.5 billion users worldwide were engaging with AI overviews. A recent Wall Street Journal report suggests AI features are reducing publishers’ organic search traffic.
Read the original article on:Techcrunch
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