Google Launches AI Mode in the UK for Smarter, More Intuitive Search Experiences

Google Search is introducing a new feature called AI Mode in the UK, offering users a more advanced and intuitive way to engage with search results. With AI Mode, users can ask complex or detailed questions—whether they are messy, multi-part, or require deeper exploration—and receive responses powered by artificial intelligence that better understand and address their needs. AI Mode is now being rolled out in the UK and will appear as a tab on the search results page, as well as in the Google app for Android and iOS. It uses a custom version of Google’s latest Gemini 2.5 model, enabling more sophisticated reasoning and the ability to handle follow-up questions, offering a richer and more interactive search experience. This feature is especially useful for tackling more intricate queries, such as comparing products, planning a trip, or understanding complex how-tos. Early users have been asking questions that are two to three times longer than typical search queries, showing the potential of AI Mode to support more nuanced and in-depth exploration. For example, users can now ask, “Things to do in Edinburgh this weekend with friends. We’re big foodies who like music but also chill vibes and exploring off the beaten track.” Or “How do migrating birds know where to go?” The AI-powered system is designed to provide comprehensive answers, including helpful links to relevant web content. Google remains focused on helping users discover the best content available on the web. AI Mode allows users to express their needs more clearly and receive information in various formats, with prominent links that encourage further exploration. As the search experience evolves with AI capabilities, the company continues to prioritize access to diverse sources of information and perspectives. With features like AI Overviews, Google has observed that users are visiting a wider range of websites when seeking answers to complex questions. Additionally, when users click on links from search result pages with AI Overviews, the resulting traffic tends to be of higher quality, indicating that users are more engaged with the content they find. AI Mode is built on Google’s core quality and ranking systems, with new methods to enhance the accuracy and reliability of AI-generated responses. While the goal is to provide AI-powered answers as often as possible, there will be cases where the system lacks confidence, and users will see traditional web search results instead. As with any early-stage AI product, there may be imperfections, but Google is dedicated to ongoing improvements. Users in the UK can now try AI Mode and provide feedback as the feature continues to develop.