Search, Supercharged: Google’s AI Mode Goes Live For All Users In India

Image Source : Deccan Chronicle

Google has officially rolled out its AI Mode feature to all users in India, marking a major leap in how people interact with search. Powered by a custom version of Gemini 2.5, the multimodal experience allows users to ask complex questions using text, voice, or images—and receive rich, AI-generated responses without needing to sign up for Labs.

Key Highlights From The Rollout

- AI Mode is now available in English via the Google app and desktop search interface
- Users can type, speak, or snap photos to initiate queries and receive detailed responses
- The feature includes follow-up prompts for deeper exploration and helpful links
- No sign-up required; accessible through a dedicated tab in the search bar
- India becomes the first country outside the US to receive full access

How AI Mode Works

AI Mode uses a technique called query fan-out, which breaks down complex questions into subtopics and searches across multiple data sources simultaneously. The results are then synthesized into a single, comprehensive answer. This allows users to:

- Ask longer, nuanced questions that previously required multiple searches
- Receive responses enriched with real-time data, shopping insights, and Knowledge Graph inputs
- Use Google Lens to submit visual queries, such as identifying plants or comparing products
- Explore topics like finance, sports, and education with interactive charts and summaries

User Behavior And Market Fit

Google reports that Indian users are asking questions two to five times longer than traditional searches, showing a strong appetite for deeper learning and contextual understanding. Voice and visual search are especially popular in India, making the multimodal approach a natural fit.

- India leads globally in Google Lens usage
- Early testers used AI Mode for learning, trip planning, product comparisons, and how-to guides
- The feature is designed to support both casual users and power searchers

Upcoming Features And Expansion

Google plans to integrate additional capabilities into AI Mode in the coming months:

- Deep Search for expert-level reports and reasoning across disparate data
- Search Live, enabling real-time camera-based conversations with Search
- Agentic features for booking tickets, making reservations, and completing purchases
- Personalised suggestions based on past searches and app activity

Safety And Quality Assurance

Google emphasizes that AI Mode is built on its core search quality and safety systems, refined over two decades. The company has conducted rigorous internal testing and adversarial red teaming to ensure reliability and accuracy.

Outlook And Competitive Positioning

AI Mode is Google’s answer to rising competition from answer engines like ChatGPT and Perplexity. By combining Gemini’s generative capabilities with Google’s vast information ecosystem, the company aims to redefine search for the AI era—starting with India.

Sources: NDTV, Economic Times, Moneycontrol, Indian Express, Gadgets360, Social Samosa, NewsBytesapp, Google Keyword Blog, Reuters