Google Expands AI-Powered Search Experience With Slew Of New Smart Features

Google is shaking up the way we search online. Its new AI-powered tool, called AI Mode, is now rolling out to all users in the U.S. No more waitlists, no sign-ups, just open Google and try it out.

Until now, AI Mode was only available to folks who joined through Google’s experimental Labs program. But starting this week, it’s available to anyone curious about a more natural, intuitive way to search.

Google has announced significant updates to its experimental AI Mode in Search, now accessible to all Labs users in the U.S. without a waitlist. The new features include a dedicated AI Mode tab for more conversational, AI-driven search results. pic.twitter.com/zUu4O5N4Qy— Oneily Gadget (@OneilyGadget) May 2, 2025

So, what makes AI Mode different? Instead of typing short keywords and digging through a list of links, you can now ask full, complex questions, even ones you might ask a friend or a customer service rep. Something like, “Which pet insurance covers exotic animals and has good customer service?” AI Mode will not only understand that, but it can also follow your train of thought if you ask follow-up questions.

Think of it like chatting with a smart assistant that really gets what you’re looking for. It’s great for planning, making decisions, or exploring new topics, especially when you’re not exactly sure how to phrase what you need.

To make things even more useful, Google has added some helpful new features. If you’re searching for local spots like restaurants, salons, or stores, you’ll now see clean visual cards that show ratings, reviews, business hours, and more, all in one glance.

Shopping is also easier. AI Mode now pulls in real-time prices, current deals, shipping info, and even tells you if an item is in stock at a nearby store. Planning a camping trip? You can search for something like “best foldable camping chair that fits in a backpack under $100”, and the AI will show you a list of options with pictures, prices, and links to buy.

This update is part of Google’s bigger push to make search more helpful and conversational. Instead of typing in keywords and scanning results, it’s starting to feel more like having a chat with someone who can actually help.

Right now, AI Mode is only available in the U.S., but Google has hinted that it’s just the beginning, more global access may be on the way soon.