Google expands access to AI Mode, adds new features

In a significant development, Google has expanded access to its experimental AI Mode feature, which allows users to ask complex questions and follow-ups directly within Search.

These updates aim to enhance AI Mode's capabilities and make it more competitive with rivals such as Perplexity AI and OpenAI's ChatGPT Search.

The Alphabet-owned giant has introduced new functionality, including the ability to pick up where you left off on a search and explore topics in more depth.

With the expansion, Google is eliminating the waitlist for AI Mode, making it available to all users in the US who are at least 18 years old and enrolled in Labs, Google's experimental arm.

The company is also testing an AI Mode tab in Google Search, which will be visible to a small percentage of users in the US.

The new features include visual place and product cards that provide detailed information, such as ratings, reviews, and real-time prices.

For instance, users can search for local restaurants or vintage shops and get instant access to relevant details.

Additionally, Google has introduced a left-side panel in AI Mode on the desktop, allowing users to access their past searches and ask follow-up questions.

The feature is designed to be helpful for longer-running projects and tasks.