Google tests merging AI Overviews with AI Mode

As OpenAI goes into “Code Red” over competitive pressures, Google revealed that it has started testing a new feature that integrates its AI Overviews with AI Mode in Search. This update means that users who receive the now-familiar AI-generated summary of key information at the top of their search results will be able to dig deeper by asking follow-up questions through a conversational interface.

Google refers to this conversational experience as AI Mode. It was first introduced to users in the U.S. this May, followed by a global rollout in August, enabling interactive back-and-forth conversations powered by Google’s Gemini AI, similar to experiences offered by ChatGPT.

Up until now, accessing AI Mode required users to consider their intentions before searching. For straightforward, quick-answer searches, typing directly into the search bar made sense. But if someone wanted a more profound exploration or expected to ask follow-up questions, they needed to switch over to the AI Mode tab manually.

Google now wants to examine whether separating these two modes is still necessary. Since information-seeking often evolves naturally, a simple question can quickly turn into a deeper inquiry.

(1/2) Today we’re starting to test a new way to seamlessly go deeper in AI Mode directly from the Search results page on mobile, globally.

This brings us closer to our vision for Search: just ask whatever’s on your mind – no matter how long or complex – and find exactly what you… pic.twitter.com/mcCS7oT2FI — Robby Stein (@rmstein) December 1, 2025

With the newly announced test, Google says users will be able to “seamlessly go deeper” into AI Mode directly from the Search results page. This feature is rolling out to users worldwide but is currently limited to mobile devices.

The rollout coincides with internal shifts at OpenAI, which is reportedly delaying other product launches to focus on improving its chat interface. Meanwhile, Google’s Gemini—boosted by features such as the Nano Banana image model and different enhancements—has grown to over 650 million monthly users as of November. Combining AI Mode with AI Overviews, which serve 2 billion monthly users, could significantly strengthen Gemini’s position in consumer adoption.

Google Search’s VP of Product, Robby Stein, wrote on X that users “shouldn’t have to think about where or how to ask your question.” Instead, they will still receive an AI Overview as a starting point—but now can follow up conversationally in AI Mode from the same screen.

“This brings us closer to our vision for Search: just ask whatever’s on your mind – no matter how long or complex – and find exactly what you need,” Stein added.