Google has rolled out a major update to its search engine, introducing an 'intelligent search box' powered by its Gemini 3.5 Flash AI model.This new 'AI Mode' allows users to engage in a continuous conversational search experience, including the ability to upload photos and videos for analysis.For example, the AI correctly identified a vacation photo as being from Torres del Paine National Park in Chile.AI Mode displays detailed, bulleted answers with citations and enables follow-up questions within the same interface.Traditional blue-link search results remain available, and users can opt out of AI Mode at any time.

Google also plans to enhance personalized notifications through AI agents for monitoring topics of interest, like updates from favorite musicians, initially available to AI Pro and Ultra subscribers.

While the feature aims to streamline search and keep users within Google, caution is advised as AI-generated answers can be inaccurate, sometimes offering absurd suggestions.Studies indicate that AI summaries reduce click-through to external websites, raising concerns among publishers.The update reflects Google’s growing investment in AI-driven search experiences, currently used by over one billion monthly users.