Google is doubling down on its AI-powered search experience with a major update to AI Mode, introducing four new features aimed at making search more interactive, visual, and personalized. Whether you’re a fan of AI summaries or prefer traditional results, Google’s latest enhancements are worth a closer look.
1. Ask Questions About Images and PDFs
Google Search is now expanding its image analysis capabilities. You can upload an image, ask a question about it, and receive an AI-generated explanation backed by links to relevant sources. Previously exclusive to the mobile app, this feature is rolling out to desktop browsers.
Even more, support for PDF files is on the way—and later, Google will allow uploads from Drive and other file types, turning the search bar into a file-aware AI assistant.
2. Canvas: A Smart Project Planner in Real Time
One of the standout additions is Canvas, an interactive workspace powered by AI Mode. You can now create project plans, design pages, or develop study guides in a dynamic environment that updates in real-time alongside your input.
To use it, simply activate AI Mode and select “Create Canvas”. Google will begin generating a plan, which you can then tailor by uploading your own notes and documents. Initially rolling out to U.S. users enrolled in the AI Mode Labsprogram, Canvas will be available more broadly soon.
3. Live Search Through Your Camera with Google Lens
Imagine searching the web based on what your camera sees. Now you can—with the new fusion of Google Lens and Search Live. Just point your phone at an object, tap the Live icon, and ask questions in real-time. The AI will engage in a back-and-forth conversation about what you’re seeing.
This real-world search feature is rolling out this week to U.S. users in the AI Mode Labs experiment.
4. AI Answers for Any Web Page
Soon, Chrome users will have an even easier way to get context on the websites they visit. Instead of digging through search results, you’ll be able to click the address bar and choose “Ask Google about this page.” The AI will generate a sidebar overview and allow follow-up questions—either directly or through AI Mode.
This builds on the existing Google Lens integration in Chrome, but with faster access and smarter page-aware suggestions.
How to Try These New Google AI Mode Features
Most of these upgrades are gradually rolling out to users who have joined the Google Search Generative Experience (SGE) or AI Mode Labs. If you’re in the U.S., you can sign up through Google’s Labs page or inside the Google app.
As AI becomes more integrated into the search experience, these updates mark another step toward a more intuitive, multimodal web—blending visual input, real-time answers, and user customization into a single interface.