AI Mode Archives

AppWizard

May 6, 2026

Google’s AI Search is finally doing a better job of linking to the web

Google is enhancing its AI Search Mode with new features aimed at improving trust and discovery. The updates will include deeper follow-up query suggestions, easier access to subscribed news sources, and more inline links and user perspectives from forums and social media in AI-generated responses. Users will receive comprehensive prompts for exploring topics, and content from their subscriptions will be highlighted for quicker access. The enhancements will also provide previews of discussions from social media and increase embedded links within AI responses for additional context.

AppWizard

May 4, 2026

Circle to Search update lets Google look beyond your screen content

In the Google app beta update (v17.18.24), the Circle to Search feature has been rebranded to "Ask about screen." This update enhances user experience by allowing searches to automatically include URLs, page content, and PDF data, providing richer context for AI-generated results. Users can now see a search box labeled “Ask about screen,” which emphasizes the ability to “Search with more context.” During testing, users have successfully uploaded URLs and PDFs while using this feature in apps like Google Chrome and Files by Google. The update is currently being rolled out to beta users, with potential incorporation into the stable version depending on feedback.

AppWizard

May 1, 2026

Google flips the script, reportedly considers putting ads in Gemini app

Philipp Schindler, Google's chief business officer, indicated during Alphabet's earnings call that the company is revisiting the possibility of integrating advertisements into the Gemini platform as it explores new advertising formats for its AI Mode. Discussions about incorporating ads into Gemini first emerged in late 2025 but were previously dismissed. While there are ongoing discussions about ad integration, Ginny Marvin, Google Ads product liaison, stated that there are currently no ads in the Gemini app and no plans to change that. Alphabet reported .9 billion in revenue, a 22% increase year-over-year, with the success of Gemini contributing to growth in Search, Cloud, and subscription services.

AppWizard

April 18, 2026

Google builds on its hotel price tracking for Android with a summer update

Google is launching a hotel discovery update that enhances its previous offerings from the summer of 2025. Starting April 17, users can search for specific hotels by name and monitor price fluctuations, receiving alerts via email. The update also broadens the Agentic Booking feature to more countries, including the U.S., allowing users to use AI Mode for booking restaurants. The focus of this update is on refining hotel price tracking, enabling users to receive notifications if prices drop for any hotel in their destination cities.

Winsage

April 15, 2026

Google App for Windows Is Officially Here (Available in Japanese)

Google launched its "Google" app for Microsoft's Windows operating system on April 14, 2026, after an experimental phase in the "Search Labs" program. The app is designed for English-speaking users globally and features a search bar activated by [Alt + Space], allowing users to search local files, installed applications, Google Drive, and the web. It includes an AI-powered "AI Mode" and supports "Google Lens." Although the interface is in English, the app can be installed in a Japanese environment and recognizes Japanese input, providing accurate responses.

AppWizard

April 14, 2026

Google’s new Windows app speeds up search on desktop

Google has launched a new app for Windows users that enhances the search experience by allowing web, Google account, and local file searches through a keyboard shortcut (Alt + Space). The app features a floating search bar with options to upload files, share screens, and use Google Lens for visual searches. It defaults to AI Mode but allows users to switch to traditional search methods. The app is available globally, but only for Windows 10 and newer systems, and currently supports only the English language.

Winsage

April 14, 2026

Google’s Spotlight-like desktop search bar for Windows is available for everyone

Google released a desktop application for Windows inspired by macOS's Spotlight feature, available globally in English for Windows 10 or newer. Users can activate the app using the Alt + Space shortcut, which allows searching web content, local files, and Google Drive. The app includes viewing options like All, Images, and AI Mode, and integrates Google Lens for enhanced search capabilities. It also supports screen sharing. There is speculation about potential expansion to macOS and Linux, with reports of a Gemini app being tested for macOS.

AppWizard

April 13, 2026

Google App Replaces Pixel Launcher Search: What You Need to Know

Google has replaced the Pixel Launcher search interface with the search experience from the Google app, leading to user dissatisfaction due to the omission of features like app search and shortcuts to frequently used applications. The new interface lacks the modern design and convenience that users expected. Users can still access the old Pixel Launcher search through the app grid or by enabling a specific feature, but this may disrupt their established habits. Many are hoping for a future update that could improve the Google app's search interface and restore the previous features.

AppWizard

March 17, 2026

Personal Intelligence for the masses: Google rolls it out in AI Mode and more across the U.S.

Google has expanded its Personal Intelligence feature to all free-tier users in the U.S., which includes AI Mode, the Gemini app, and Gemini in Chrome. This feature integrates with connected apps like Gmail and Google Photos to provide tailored assistance. Initially launched for AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers, it enhances user experience by retrieving relevant information about past purchases or family vacations. Users maintain control over app connections and can revoke permissions at any time. The feature aims to assist with planning trips and shopping experiences by accessing recent purchases.

AppWizard

February 19, 2026

Google exec shares an AI Mode change for sources that makes it even easier to fact-check

Google has introduced an update to its Search platform that enhances AI Mode and AI Overviews. The update includes "groups of links" accessible through a floating sub-menu when users hover over the link icon, which has been redesigned for better visibility. This feature is currently available only for desktop users, while mobile users will continue to tap links as usual. AI Mode can assist with appointment bookings by requiring users to fill out a brief form, after which it summarizes the information gathered. Earlier this year, Google integrated its AI model, Gemini 3, into AI Overviews, allowing users to ask follow-up questions more quickly while retaining context.