Google ditches classic blue links for AI-driven search in new trial

The introduction of AI Mode marks a key move for Google to maintain its search dominance amid rising competition from tech giants like Microsoft-backed OpenAI, which launched AI-only search in ChatGPT in October 2023

Google has brought a groundbreaking change to its search engine with the introduction of an experimental feature that replaces the traditional “10 blue links” with an AI-generated summary. This new feature, called "AI Mode on Google," is currently available exclusively to users subscribed to the Google One AI Premium service. The move represents a dramatic shift in how users interact with Google search results and positions the company at the forefront of the rapidly evolving AI search landscape.

AI Mode is activated via a new tab on the search results page, alongside the standard search options. Once selected, it presents users with AI-generated summaries that provide more detailed and context-rich answers to their queries, supplemented by relevant hyperlinks. This feature moves away from the conventional list of links and offers a more seamless, holistic way to explore information. It is one of the most advanced AI search features to date, offering a fresh approach to information retrieval.

Google has been steadily incorporating artificial intelligence into its search offerings. Previously, it introduced "AI Overviews," brief AI-generated summaries displayed above traditional search results. These summaries, which began appearing in over 100 countries, also incorporated advertisements starting last May. With the introduction of AI Mode, the company is further refining its AI search results, offering users a richer experience.

Google’s strategic move to AI search

The introduction of AI Mode marks a more significant step in Google’s efforts to safeguard its dominance in search, particularly as competition heats up from other tech giants, such as Microsoft-backed OpenAI, which integrated AI-only search capabilities into its ChatGPT model in October 2023. The growing prominence of AI-driven search experiences is forcing Google to adapt and innovate faster than ever before.

Ruth Porat, Google’s Chief Investment Officer, has emphasized that the integration of Google AI into search is the company’s “biggest bet,” especially as advertising revenue remains crucial to Alphabet’s financial success. By introducing AI Mode, Google aims to solidify its leadership in search while enhancing the user experience with more dynamic and efficient AI-powered responses.

Currently, only Google One AI Premium subscribers—who pay for extra cloud storage and advanced AI features—have access to AI Mode, but it marks a clear indication of where Google sees the future of search.