Google has introduced an AI mode for its search engine users in India. This new Q&A-style feature is currently experimental and requires users to opt in via Search Labs.
Once activated, users can submit queries in English, though support for local languages has not been announced. The AI mode can handle complex, multi-part questions, such as suggestions for keeping children active indoors on hot days without much space or expensive toys. It also allows follow-up questions to improve results.
Earlier this year, Google tested AI mode with premium subscribers in the U.S., followed by a wider rollout post its Google I/O event. Since then, Google has added features like voice and image search support, a shopping integration, and advertising within the AI experience. Voice and image search functionalities are available to users in India, reflecting the country’s preference for voice searches.
The AI mode is powered by a customized version of Google’s Gemini 2.5 model. Google observed that early users tend to ask queries two to three times longer than usual.
India, with over 870 million internet users, serves as a key market and testing ground for Google’s products, especially for multilingual users. Despite Google’s dominant position in search, chat-based AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity have gained popularity. The AI mode aims to attract users who prefer conversational AI interfaces.
Beyond AI mode, Google continues to develop AI-powered features like AI overviews that summarize search results. As of April, over 1.5 billion people worldwide use these summaries. However, a recent report by the Wall Street Journal highlighted concerns that Google’s AI features may be reducing traffic to publishers through decreased organic search visits.