Google Launches Experimental AI Search Mode for Indian Users

In a significant development for technology and digital interaction, Google has introduced its experimental AI mode in India, a Q&A-style search tool aimed at enhancing user experience by allowing more complex and conversational queries. Announced on June 23, 2025, this feature requires users to opt in via Search Labs, where they can engage with the tool primarily in English.

The AI mode allows users to pose intricate multi-part questions, such as, "My kids are 4 and 7 and have lots of energy. Suggest creative ways to get them active and moving indoors, especially on hot days, without needing a lot of space or expensive toys." This feature also enables follow-up questions to refine search results, presenting a more interactive and user-friendly approach to information retrieval. According to Google representatives, the AI mode is powered by a customized version of the Gemini 2.5 system.

Previously, Google tested this feature with premium subscribers in the United States before rolling it out more broadly following its Google I/O event earlier this year. The company has noted an increase in user engagement, with early testers asking queries that are 2-3 times longer than typical searches. This indicates a shift towards a more conversational style of inquiry, which aligns with the growing trends in user behavior.

Despite the promising functionality of the AI mode, Google has yet to announce plans for supporting local Indian languages in this tool. This limitation may affect accessibility for a broader audience in a linguistically diverse nation like India. Google has expressed its commitment to enhancing the user experience, stating that voice and image search features are currently supported in India, recognizing the popularity of voice as a search modality among users.

Industry experts have weighed in on this development. Dr. Anjali Kumar, a leading AI researcher at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, emphasized the importance of adapting AI technologies to local contexts. "While the innovation is commendable, it is crucial for companies like Google to consider linguistic diversity to fully harness the potential of AI in markets like India," she stated in a recent interview on June 24, 2025.

Moreover, Ravi Gupta, CEO of Tech Innovations India, highlighted the competitive landscape, noting that other tech giants are also exploring similar tools. "Google's entry into this space could redefine how consumers engage with search technologies, but they must be aware of local user needs and preferences to succeed," he mentioned during an industry conference.

The introduction of AI-powered tools such as this could have significant implications for the digital economy in India. Research from the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) indicates that over 600 million people in the country are internet users, with a growing number engaging in online searches via mobile devices. As AI tools become more sophisticated, they are likely to reshape the dynamics of information retrieval and user engagement, ultimately influencing trends in digital marketing and content creation.

Looking ahead, the success of Google's AI mode will depend on its adaptability to local languages and user preferences. As the feature is still in its experimental stage, further updates and iterations are expected. The tech community is watching closely to see how this tool evolves and impacts user behavior in India and beyond.

In conclusion, while Google's AI mode signifies an exciting leap forward in search technology, its future efficacy will largely hinge on its ability to cater to the unique linguistic and cultural fabric of the Indian market. As this technology continues to develop, the implications for digital interaction could be profound, paving the way for more personalized and accessible online experiences.