Thoughts Brewing Blog

AI Quick Tips 290: Google search has an AI mode

Written by Damien Griffin | Feb 19, 2026 2:15:00 PM
In some ways it’s kind of weird that Google search is adding the thing that people are saying will replace it, but here we are anyway.  


This is likely aimed at the longer-term computer users (that’s my nice way of saying “older, like me”) who are used to using Google search.  A lot of the younger people that I’ve talked to, use AI tools first and don’t even consider Google search.  


Whoever it’s for, it’s there now.  


It’s hard to miss.  Especially when I put in a giant orange arrow pointing right at it…


When you click on AI Mode, you get a completely different screen and experience.  


It’s basically Gemini when you want it.  Initially, I didn’t really see the point, but I actually find it useful.  Sometimes the AI chatbot interface is a better tool and sometimes “classic” search makes more sense.  Obviously, your mileage may vary.  If you are scoffing at the idea, you may want to give it a try first.


No promises though, you might still hate it.  


If you’ve used the Gemini app before, this is a watered-down version.  Here are the options under the “+” menu


The good news is that it’s already attached to Google Search so you don’t have to do anything differently.  And if you don’t want to use it, you don’t have to.


Completely new to Gemini and want to know how to get started?? We have a video just for that →