Google AI Mode: The Future of Search

Google AI Mode: The Future of Search

Google’s new AI Mode injects powerful generative AI directly into Search, helping you cut through noise and get clearer, faster answers. Here’s what you need to know — and how to make the most of it.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

July 5, 2025

Is Google's AI Mode the Productivity Secret You’ve Been Waiting For?

Ever typed a question into Google and felt overwhelmed by the avalanche of blue links? You’re not alone. 

According to Google, nearly 15% of daily searches are brand-new, leaving traditional search engines scrambling to keep up. 

That’s where Google’s newly expanded AI Mode steps in, bringing the magic of generative AI right to the search bar, offering concise, contextual, and conversational answers.

This could be the beginning of a genuine shift in how we gather information online — one that might actually make you love searching again.

What is Google AI Mode, and Why Should You Care?

Google AI Mode is a new generative-AI-powered feature rolling out in Search. 

Rather than returning a wall of links, it delivers synthesized, plain-language overviews to your questions, and even suggests follow-up queries, much like a conversation.

You could think of it as your personal research assistant who never gets tired — summarizing, clarifying, and pointing you to deeper sources in seconds.

What You’ll Gain

• Save time researching complex topics
• Reduce irrelevant search clutter
• Boost confidence in your search results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

Web/Desktop

1. Open Google Search in Chrome or any browser.
2. Type in a complex query, e.g., “best productivity apps for remote teams.”
3. Look for the AI-powered overview at the top of the results.
4. Review the generated summary, then check suggested follow-up prompts below.
5. Click any of those to deepen your exploration.

fig. 1 - Google AI Mode Interface on Web/Desktop

iOS

1. Open the Google app.
2. Enter your question as usual.
3. Tap the AI Overview if offered, to read the generative summary.
4. Swipe through follow-up options to dig deeper.

Android

1. Open the Google app.
2. Type your question in the search bar.
3. Select the AI-powered summary if it appears.
4. Scroll down for related next steps and conversation starters.

Note:  

Unlike traditional search where you might break down your question, with AI Mode, you can ask complex, multi-part, or even conversational questions. 

For example, instead of "best marketing strategies for small businesses," try "What are the most effective, low-cost digital marketing strategies for a startup fashion brand targeting Gen Z in urban areas?"

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Extremely fast, distilled information
• Saves multiple clicks and page visits
• Great for complex or multi-part queries

Cons

• May oversimplify nuanced topics
• Can miss niche, expert-level resources
• Still evolving, so occasional mistakes

For example, an educator researching climate policy may appreciate a quick AI-generated primer, but still needs to dive into academic journals for deeper context.

Real-World Examples

• A teacher asks “What is the best way to teach photosynthesis to third graders?” — Google AI Mode suggests a simplified explanation, relevant videos, and interactive resources.

• A small business owner searches “LLC vs S Corp taxes 2025” — AI Mode distills tax pros/cons and provides links to IRS pages for validation.

• A traveler asks “Is Machu Picchu safe in September?” — AI Mode offers a brief risk summary, weather notes, and links to travel advisories.

Configuration Guide

No manual installation required. 

Google AI Mode is now rolling out widely in the U.S.

Feature Access

• Available to: Google Search users in the U.S., initially in English
• Access through: Chrome, Google app, Android, iOS
• Limited rollout in other countries pending

Senior Analyst Feature Evaluation

Criteria Score (0–10) Justification

Value 9

Dramatically cuts research time for most users.

Usability 8

Simple to access via Search.

Wow Factor 9

Conversational, summarizing search feels futuristic and highly “Cool”.

Total Score: 26/30  

🌟 Excellent: Highly recommend.

Key Takeaways

Google AI Mode modernizes search by delivering concise, generative answers to your questions, saving you valuable time. 

While it still needs refinement for deep research, its ability to streamline information discovery is genuinely impressive.

Try It Yourself

Give Google AI Mode a spin today. 

Try a complicated query, then see how it handles the heavy lifting. 

Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments, subscribe to the One Cool Tip newsletter, and pass this tip along to your colleagues.

READ MORE

• Simplify Your Search: How Google's New iOS Feature Streamlines Your Mobile Experience
  
• Personalize Your AI with Google Search History
  
• Google Gemini Goes Live
  

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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Unleash Your Inner Storyteller: A Deep Dive into Google Labs Portraits with Matt Dicks

Unleash Your Inner Storyteller: A Deep Dive into Google Labs Portraits with Matt Dicks

Google Labs Portraits, featuring AI trained by experts like Matt Dicks, offer a groundbreaking way to access specialized knowledge. This innovative tool provides on-demand guidance for enhancing storytelling and communication skills, making expert insights accessible to everyone looking to craft more compelling narratives.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 29, 2025

Have you ever wished you could tap into the wisdom of a seasoned expert, right when you needed it most, almost like having them on speed dial? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try Google Portraits with Matt Dicks.

For anyone looking to refine their communication and storytelling prowess, Google Labs has unveiled something genuinely intriguing: AI-powered "Portraits," and the one featuring acclaimed storyteller Matt Dicks is a real standout. 

This isn't just another chatbot; it's a carefully crafted AI designed to impart Dicks' unique insights into the art of narrative, transforming how we approach communication.

What You'll Gain

• Access to expert storytelling wisdom on demand.
• A new way to practice and refine communication skills.
• Insights into crafting compelling narratives.

Gemini Live Rolls Out Real‑Time Captions: Speak Quietly, Read Loud

Gemini Live Rolls Out Real‑Time Captions

Gemini Live now adds live captioning on Android and iOS.  It's ideal for silent spaces or noisy environments where you’d rather read the AI response than listen.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 26, 2025

Ever tried chatting with a voice assistant in a quiet library or during a meeting? 

You likely hit mute or whispered prompts—only to find Gemini Live wouldn’t even start if the phone was silent. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Gemini Live Captions.

Try this subtle hack: tap a new captions button and Gemini speaks through text instead of sound. 

It’s a small tweak with a big practical upside.

Wake Up to AI That Works for You: Gemini Scheduled Actions Boost Productivity

Wake Up to AI That Works for You: Gemini Scheduled Actions Boost Productivity

With Gemini Scheduled Actions, Google turns its AI into an on‑demand assistant by handling daily summaries, reminders, and creative prompts on your schedule.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

June 22, 2025

Ever wish you could automate your morning routine? 

Imagine waking up to a personalized summary of your calendar, emails, and weather without lifting a finger. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Google Gemini Scheduled Actions.

Google’s new Scheduled Actions for its Gemini AI does exactly that, making repetition disappear like a morning alarm that never stops buzzing.

Boost Your Browsing: How Microsoft Edge’s New 'Copilot Mode' Levels Up Your Productivity

Boost Your Browsing: How Microsoft Edge’s New 'Copilot Mode' Levels Up Your Productivity

Edge is transforming its new‑tab page into a smart command center—here’s how Copilot Mode helps busy professionals search, chat, and accelerate your workflow.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 18, 2025

Ever opened a new tab and wished you could ask for help right away, without typing a search or navigating menus? 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use the New Microsoft Edge Copilot Mode.

Microsoft is rolling out a "Copilot Mode" toggle in Edge’s new‑tab experience, replacing the usual clutter, news feeds, widgets with a clean prompt: "How can I help today?" 

This invites you to Search and Chat, launching your query into Copilot’s AI for instant, contextual responses with no extra typing, no tabs, just answers.

Generate AI Images in WhatsApp with ChatGPT: Just Text “1‑800‑ChatGPT” for Magic

Generate AI Images in WhatsApp with ChatGPT: Just Text “1‑800‑ChatGPT” for Magic

ChatGPT’s new image‑generation feature lets you create AI visuals directly in WhatsApp by messaging 1‑800‑ChatGPT—no extra apps needed.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 17, 2025

Ever thought, “I wish I could conjure up a quick illustration or photo edit right here in chat”? 

WhatsApp users can now do just that—no need to bounce over to Midjourney or DALL·E. OpenAI unveiled this direct‑to‑WhatsApp image generation via their number 1‑800‑ChatGPT, blending convenience with creative power.

Google Portraits with Kim Scott: Your AI Leadership Coach

Google Portraits with Kim Scott: Your AI Leadership Coach

Step into conversational coaching on leadership and feedback with Kim Scott’s AI-powered Portrait in Google Labs.  Get real-time guidance drawn from trust, candor, and expert voice.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

June 12, 2025

Ever wish Kim Scott could hop into your Zoom call at the moment you're wrestling with a tough feedback convo? 

Here's a Cool Tip: AI Coaching.

In early June 2025, Google Labs rolled out "Portraits," starting with a lifelike AI avatar of Kim Scott, author of Radical Candor.

It’s not science fiction—it’s your own virtual coach, available 24/7, ready when you are.

Win + C is Back: Open Copilot Instantly in Windows 11

Win + C is Back: Open Copilot Instantly in Windows 11

Microsoft revives a classic shortcut—Win + C now launches Copilot in Windows 11, thanks to the latest update. Here’s how it works and why it matters.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 11, 2025

Remember when the Win + C keyboard shortcut opened Cortana? 

Microsoft retired the shortcut after moving away from its voice assistant, leaving the key combo unused. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Win + C is back!

Win + C makes a comeback—this time launching Copilot, Microsoft's AI-powered assistant in Windows 11.

This functionality arrives with Windows 11 update KB5060842, part of the June 2025 cumulative update for Windows 11 24H2. 

If you rely on Copilot for quick answers, writing help, or coding assistance, this shortcut is a game-changer.

Let’s explore how to use it, why it’s useful, and how to customize it.

Unlock Your Insights: Share NotebookLM & Revolutionize Collaboration

Unlocking the Power of NotebookLM: Share AI-Enhanced Notebooks with Ease

Google's NotebookLM now allows users to share AI-powered notebooks publicly via a simple link, enabling seamless collaboration and knowledge dissemination.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 7, 2025

Ever wished your research could speak for itself?

Here's a Cool Tip:  Share Your NotebookLM Notebook!

Google's NotebookLM has introduced a game-changing feature: public notebook sharing. 

This allows users to disseminate their AI-enhanced notes and summaries effortlessly. 

Whether you're an educator, business professional, or content creator, this feature streamlines collaboration and information sharing.

Bing Video Creator: AI-Powered Video Generation Made Easy

Bing Video Creator: AI-Powered Video Generation Made Easy

Unlock AI-Powered Video Creation with Bing Video Creator Bing Video Creator revolutionizes video production by enabling users to generate high-quality, AI-driven videos simply by entering text prompts.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

June 5, 2025

Creating professional-grade videos has historically required expensive software, specialized skills, and hours of editing. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Create videos with the new Bing Video Creator.

But now, with Bing Video Creator, anyone can generate engaging short videos simply by entering text prompts—no editing experience needed. 

Whether you're a business user, an educator, or a content creator, this AI-powered tool streamlines video production for impactful storytelling.

Google Gemini Goes Live

Google Gemini Goes Live

Discover how Gemini Live's new camera and screen-sharing capabilities transform your smartphone into an interactive AI assistant, offering real-time assistance for tasks ranging from troubleshooting to planning.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

June 3, 2025

Imagine pointing your phone at a malfunctioning appliance and receiving immediate, step-by-step repair guidance. 

Or sharing your screen during a meeting to get real-time insights from an AI assistant.

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try the New Google Gemini Live feature.

 This level of interactive assistance is now a reality with Gemini Live's latest features, 

What is Gemini Live?

Gemini Live is Google's advanced AI assistant, now enhanced with camera and screen-sharing functionalities. 

Powered by Project Astra, these features allow Gemini to process visual information, enabling it to provide context-aware assistance in real time.

What You'll Gain:

• Visual Assistance: Receive help by showing Gemini what's on your screen or in your environment.
• Enhanced Productivity: Streamline tasks with real-time, context-aware support.
• Seamless Integration: Easily incorporate Gemini Live into your daily workflow on Android and iOS devices.

Set Length for NotebookLM Audio Overviews: Customize Your Listening Experience

Set Length for NotebookLM Audio Overviews: Customize Your Listening Experience

Get just the right amount of insight from NotebookLM's audio summaries—now customizable to fit your time and attention.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 31, 2025

Ever wish AI could explain something just long enough—not too much, not too little?

Here's a Cool Tip:  Set the Audio Overview Length in NotebookLM.

Google has quietly introduced a highly practical feature for users of its AI-powered note summarization platform: you can now set the length of audio overviews to better match your needs, whether you're multitasking or deep diving into research.

This feature gives you more control over your listening experience, so you don’t have to choose between speed and substance.

What Is This Feature and Why It Matters

NotebookLM’s Audio Overview feature turns long documents and complex notes into spoken summaries you can listen to—hands-free. 

New Power for Siri: How to Add ChatGPT to iOS

New Power for Siri: How to Add ChatGPT to iOS

Want a smarter Siri? Apple now lets you integrate ChatGPT with Apple Intelligence, making your iPhone’s assistant more powerful than ever. Here’s how to set it up and why it matters.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 29, 2025

What If Siri Got a Brain Boost?

Imagine asking Siri to summarize a complex article, write an email draft, or generate ideas for your next presentation—and getting a natural, coherent response. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Integrate ChatGPT with Siri.

Apple’s latest innovation—Siri + ChatGPT integration via Apple Intelligence—unleashes a more capable and context-aware assistant. 

With just a few taps, you can upgrade Siri’s skills by enabling access to ChatGPT, giving your iPhone a serious AI IQ boost.

Let’s discover what it is, why it matters, and how to enable it today.

Save Your Screenshots to Google Maps

Save Your Screenshots to Google Maps

Google Maps now lets you turn screenshots into saved locations using AI. No more digging through your camera roll—just snap, review, and save.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 27, 2025

Ever Screenshot a Place and Forget Why?

You're scrolling through Instagram, spot a cozy café in Paris, and screenshot it for your upcoming trip. 

Weeks later, that image is buried among memes and receipts. 

Sound familiar? 

Here's a Cool Tip: Save Your Screenshots to Google Maps.

Google Maps' latest feature, powered by Gemini AI, ensures those spontaneous captures become organized, actionable travel plans.

What Is the Feature and Why It Matters

Google Maps' new capability scans your screenshots for recognizable place names and prompts you to save them directly within the app. 

This transforms your casual captures into structured lists, streamlining trip planning and ensuring no location is forgotten.

Gemini in Chrome: Google’s AI Assistant Now Built Into Your Browser

Gemini in Chrome: Google’s AI Assistant Now Built Into Your Browser

Google’s Gemini AI is now seamlessly integrated into Chrome, offering real-time, context-aware assistance directly within your browser.  Learn how this powerful tool can streamline your workflow, enhance productivity, and transform your browsing experience.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 24, 2025

AI Assistance, Right Where You Work

Imagine reading a dense research article and instantly getting a concise summary without leaving the page. 

Or comparing product specs across multiple tabs with a single command. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use Google Gemini in Chrome.

With Gemini now embedded in Chrome, these scenarios are not just possible—they're effortless.

Google's latest integration brings AI assistance directly into your browser, revolutionizing how we interact with web content.

What Is Gemini in Chrome?

Gemini in Chrome is Google's AI assistant built directly into the Chrome browser. 

Unlike standalone AI tools, Gemini operates within your current browsing context, providing real-time assistance based on the content you're viewing. 

Whether you're summarizing articles, clarifying complex concepts, or comparing information across tabs, Gemini is designed to enhance your productivity without disrupting your workflow.

Google’s NotebookLM Goes Mobile: Your AI Research Assistant, Now in Your Pocket

Google’s NotebookLM Goes Mobile: Your AI Research Assistant, Now in Your Pocket

The long-awaited NotebookLM mobile app is here, bringing Google’s AI-powered research and note-taking tool to Android and iOS.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 22, 2025

Ever wish your notes could talk back?

Imagine uploading a dense PDF or a long YouTube lecture and having it transformed into a podcast-style summary you can listen to during your commute. 

That's the promise of NotebookLM, Google's AI-powered research assistant.

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try the New NotebookLM mobile app.

Launched just ahead of Google I/O 2025, this app brings the power of AI-driven summarization and interactive learning to your fingertips.

What is NotebookLM?

NotebookLM is an AI-powered research and note-taking tool developed by Google Labs. 

It allows users to upload various sources—such as PDFs, Google Docs, websites, and YouTube videos—and interact with them through AI-generated summaries, Q&A, and even podcast-style audio overviews. 

The mobile app extends these capabilities, enabling users to engage with their content on the go.

ChatGPT's Shopping Upgrade: Smarter, Faster, Ad-Free Product Discovery

ChatGPT's Shopping Upgrade: Smarter, Faster, Ad-Free Product Discovery

Say goodbye to endless tabs and sponsored results. ChatGPT’s new shopping feature delivers personalized, ad-free product recommendations in a conversational format.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 20, 2025

Ever found yourself lost in a sea of browser tabs, trying to compare products, read reviews, and find the best deals? 

Online shopping can be overwhelming, with countless options and sponsored ads vying for your attention. 

But what if you could simplify the process by having a conversation with an AI that understands your needs and preferences?

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use ChatGPT to Shop Online.

Feature Explanation

OpenAI has recently enhanced ChatGPT with a new shopping feature that transforms the way users discover products online. 

When you express a shopping intent - like searching for "the best noise-canceling headphones under $200 - ChatGPT now provides:

• Visual product carousels: Displaying images, prices, and star ratings.
• Detailed product information: Including descriptions and aggregated reviews.
• Direct purchase links: Redirecting you to the retailer's website to complete the transaction.

Unlike traditional search engines, ChatGPT's recommendations are not influenced by paid advertisements. 

ChatGPT's Deep Research Now Offers PDF Downloads

ChatGPT's Deep Research Now Offers PDF Downloads

OpenAI's ChatGPT has introduced a "Download as PDF" feature for its Deep Research tool, enabling users to export comprehensive AI-generated reports with preserved formatting.  This enhancement is particularly beneficial for professionals requiring polished, shareable documents.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor  

May 18, 2025

Imagine delegating hours of meticulous research to an AI assistant that not only compiles comprehensive reports but now also delivers them in a neatly formatted PDF. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use the New Download feature in ChatGPT's Deep Research.

OpenAI's ChatGPT has made this a reality with its latest update to the Deep Research feature. 

This advancement is poised to transform how professionals, educators, and researchers gather and present information.

What Is Deep Research?

Simplify Your Search: How Google's New iOS Feature Streamlines Your Mobile Experience

Simplify Your Search: How Google's New iOS Feature Streamlines Your Mobile Experience

The Google iOS app just got a whole lot more user-friendly! The new Simplify feature is designed to cut through the clutter and bring you the information you need, faster than ever.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

May 8, 2025

Ever stumbled upon a web article filled with technical jargon that left you scratching your head? 

Whether it's medical terminology, legal lingo, or scientific concepts, complex text can be a barrier to understanding.

Here's a Cool Tip:  Use Google's New Simplify Feature on iPhone.

Google's new Simplify feature for its iOS app declutters the search experience, making it easier and faster to find what you're looking for. 

In today's fast-paced world, time is of the essence. 

How to Use the New Perplexity Voice Assistant on iPhone

How to Use the New Perplexity Voice Assistant on iPhone

Unlock hands-free knowledge with the new Perplexity Voice Assistant for iPhone. Learn how to set it up, use it efficiently, and maximize your productivity with natural voice conversations.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

April 26, 2025

Have you ever needed quick, reliable information but didn’t have a hand free to type?

Imagine an AI assistant that lets you ask follow-up questions naturally—no repeated prompts or awkward rephrasing.

Here's a Cool Tip:  Try the new Perplexity AI Voice Assistant on iPhone.

With the new Perplexity Voice Assistant for iPhone, that experience is now at your fingertips (or rather, your voice).

What Is the Perplexity Voice Assistant?

The Perplexity Voice Assistant is a new feature integrated into the Perplexity iOS app, allowing users to ask spoken questions and receive live, research-backed answers.

Unlike basic voice assistants, Perplexity's system actively gathers updated information from across the web, citing credible sources in real-time.