In a shift toward wider accessibility, Google’s AI Mode feature is now available to free users who had previously applied and joined the waitlist. This move expands access to the AI-powered search experience, which was originally exclusive to Google One AI Premium subscribers.
According to a recent report by 9to5Google, free account users who had signed up for the waitlist are now gaining access to Google Search’s AI Mode. Initially launched for those paying $19.99 per month for the Google One AI Premium subscription, this feature is now part of the Search Labs experiment that Google is testing to enhance its search engine experience.
These users who have been granted access have reportedly received an email from Google with the subject line, “You’re Off the Waitlist!” The rollout marks a significant move toward democratizing access to generative AI tools, which were previously restricted to premium subscribers only.
The AI Mode Experience: What’s New?
For those no longer on the waitlist, Google Search’s new AI Mode will offer the generative AI alongside traditional search options such as Images, Shopping, and Videos. However, for users who wish to dive directly into the AI Mode, they can visit a dedicated website for easy access.
Unlike traditional search results that display webpage links, the AI Mode simplifies the experience by providing content summaries generated by the AI. This shift represents a move away from simply displaying search results to offering curated and generated content based on the user’s query.
Google’s Push into Generative AI
As traditional AI gives way to more advanced generative AI, Google is increasingly integrating machine learning into its services. One example is the replacement of its older AI Assistant with newer generative AI technology, which aids users on voice-activated devices.
Google has also focused on expanding its Gemini AI features, which enhance user experience not only on Android and within the Google Workspace suite but also on iOS. The latest update of the Gemini AI app on iOS offers more robust capabilities, including automation, direct prompts, and task management, making it a more intuitive tool for users across various platforms.
Author’s Opinion
This expanded access to Google’s AI Mode marks a significant shift in how search engines will function in the future. By making generative AI more accessible, Google is setting the stage for a more streamlined, intuitive search experience. While it’s exciting to see these tools become available to more users, the true value will lie in how the technology evolves to meet user needs and avoid overwhelming them with too much automated content. Google’s ability to balance AI’s capabilities with human touch will be crucial in determining its long-term success.
Featured image credit: FMT
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