Google Launches AI Mode in India

Updated:June 24, 2025

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Google has introduced its experimental Q&A AI mode to users in India. It mimics a conversational question-and-answer format. 

With it, users can ask complex questions and receive direct, detailed answers as per the company announcement on June 23. 

The tool is available through Search Labs and requires users to opt in. Currently, it supports only English. Google has not confirmed when it will add support for Indian languages.

Google AI mode
Image Credits: Smith Collection

More Personal Search

Google AI mode allows users to go beyond simple keywords. Instead, they can enter long, detailed questions. For example:

“I have two dogs, and they’re very different. How can I show each dog love and care that feels individual to them on a tight budget and limited free time?”

The tool provides clear answers right away. It also allows users to ask follow-up questions. This makes the search process feel more interactive.

Google says early testers are asking queries that are two to three times longer than usual. The system handles these easily, giving more accurate and helpful results.

Powered by Gemini 2.5

The AI mode uses a customized version of Google’s Gemini 2.5 model. This advanced system enables the tool to understand and respond to long-form questions. 

It processes language more naturally and gives complete answers. Gemini 2.5 also powers image and voice inputs, which are already available to Indian users. 

Voice search is especially important in India, where many users prefer speaking over typing.

A Strategic Test Ground

India has over 870 million internet users and is one of Google’s largest and most active markets.

The country’s high mobile usage and multilingual population make it an ideal place to test AI tools. 

Google often uses India to observe how people interact with new technologies. Insights from this launch will help shape future product development. 

The company may also use the data to expand language support later.

Gradual Global Expansion

Google began testing AI mode earlier this year with premium users in the United States. After its annual I/O event, it rolled out the tool to all U.S. users. 

Now, the company is bringing it to more regions, starting with India. Since its launch, the feature has grown steadily. 

Google has added voice input, image search, shopping suggestions, and ads. These updates are part of Google’s broader push to integrate AI into everyday search.

New Search Habits

Many users have started turning to AI chat tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity, which provide quick, conversational answers. 

Google’s AI mode aims to meet similar expectations, but within its own ecosystem.

By offering this tool, Google hopes to retain users who prefer interactive search experiences. It combines the accuracy of Google Search with the convenience of an AI assistant.

AI Overviews

In addition to AI mode, Google has promoted another tool, AI Overviews, which summarizes search results in a few sentences. 

It helps users find information faster without clicking through multiple links. As of April 2025, more than 1.5 billion people have used AI Overviews globally. 

However, not all feedback has been positive: some publishers report traffic declines. They say users are getting answers from summaries rather than visiting original sites.

A recent Wall Street Journal report raised concerns about how these AI features affect content creators. Google has not responded publicly to those claims.

Lolade

Contributor & AI Expert