Google Rolls Out Advanced AI Features Including Gemini 2.5 Pro and Deep Search for Enhanced Research and Local Business Interaction
Google has announced the rollout of powerful new AI capabilities to its Search function, leveraging the latest Gemini models. These enhancements are initially being made available to Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers, offering them access to the advanced Gemini 2.5 Pro model and a new feature called Deep Search in AI Mode. At its annual I/O developer conference, Google detailed how the Gemini 2.5 Pro model is designed to handle complex queries with enhanced reasoning, math, and coding capabilities. Users can now select this model from a drop-down menu in the AI Mode tab for more sophisticated assistance. While the default model in AI Mode will continue to provide quick, general answers for most questions, Gemini 2.5 Pro will serve those needing deeper insights and more specialized help. Deep Search, powered by the Gemini 2.5 Pro model, represents Google’s most advanced research tool in Search. It can save users hours by conducting multiple searches, synthesizing information from various sources, and generating comprehensive, fully-cited reports within minutes. This feature is particularly useful for professionals, students, and anyone tackling intricate research projects or making significant life decisions, such as buying a new house or performing financial analysis. Additionally, Google is introducing an AI-powered calling feature in Search to streamline tasks for users. This agentic capability allows Search to call local businesses to gather pricing and availability information, eliminating the need for users to make these calls themselves. For instance, searching for "pet groomers near me" will display an option to "Have AI check pricing." Users can submit the request, and Search will handle the calls, consolidating and presenting the relevant information from multiple businesses. This feature is now available to all U.S. Search users, with heightened limits for Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers. Businesses maintain control over this process through their Business Profile settings, ensuring they can manage interactions and preferences accordingly. Google expects this new functionality to benefit both users by saving them time and businesses by facilitating easier booking and customer engagement. These advancements underscore Google's commitment to staying at the forefront of AI technology and enhancing user experiences. The company plans to continue integrating its cutting-edge AI features into Search, providing early access to subscribers of Google AI Pro and AI Ultra before extending them broadly to all users globally. Industry insiders view this move as a strategic step by Google to maintain its leadership in the AI race, particularly as competitors like Meta and OpenAI continue to innovate rapidly. Google’s focus on both advanced models and practical, user-centric features highlights its dual approach to AI development—pushing the boundaries of what AI can do while ensuring these capabilities are accessible and beneficial to its vast user base. Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscriptions offer subscribers the opportunity to be among the first to experience and influence the development of these new features, which could provide a competitive edge in various professional and personal contexts. The company's ongoing investments in AI and its emphasis on user engagement suggest a promising future for AI-driven search technologies.