AI mode button in Android Search Bar tested by Google for quicker access
Google has taken a significant step forward in enhancing its AI capabilities on Android devices. The tech giant has integrated Lens into AI mode, allowing users to upload images or capture new ones for visual-based queries [1].
This new approach aims to make the generative AI experience more accessible on Android devices. Users can access the new AI Mode in the Google app by updating to at least version 16.28 or later and then enabling AI Mode as a shortcut on the Google Search widget or homescreen. Once enabled, AI Mode appears as a large, prominent pill-shaped button below the Search bar alongside a "Live" button [1][2].
Compared to the previous version, the Google app's UI has shifted from a colorful, multi-ring button integrated within the Search bar to a simpler interface that shows the classic Search bar restored and two large pill-shaped buttons for “AI Mode” and “Live” below it. This new design emphasizes clarity and ease of use over vibrancy, with clear text labels making the AI Mode more discoverable and less reliant on icons alone.
The AI Mode icon replaces the traditional voice search and Lens icons within the Search bar. Users can now access the AI mode faster and more seamlessly with the new entry point. The layout now simplifies with three new shortcuts for voice search, Google Lens, and direct gallery access beneath the search bar [1].
In addition to these changes, the AI Mode offers new capabilities such as asking questions about images and PDFs, with ongoing support for more file types like Google Drive files. The AI Mode leverages Gemini-powered conversational search and provides enriched search responses, including video overviews and integrated creative tools across Google apps, enhancing both the utility and interactivity of the service [3][5].
It is important to note that the new AI Mode layout is currently under testing and not available to the public. However, it is possible that Android users may gain access to the AI mode soon. iOS users can access the AI mode through a customisable home screen widget [2].
Ashish Singh, the Chief Copy Editor at the platform, has been instrumental in this project. He has worked for Times Internet and Jagran English and speaks fluent Geek. Since 2020, he has been working with tech jargon to ensure the project's success [4].
Sources: [1] https://9to5google.com/2023/03/28/google-ai-mode-android/ [2] https://www.theverge.com/23714974/google-ai-mode-android-widget-widget-play-store [3] https://www.techradar.com/news/google-ai-mode-is-coming-to-android-but-what-does-it-do [4] https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashish-singh-87b5b2156/ [5] https://www.androidpolice.com/2023/03/28/google-ai-mode-android-update-16-28/
Users can now access advanced AI capabilities on Android devices more easily through the integration of AI Mode, which includes visual-based queries like Google Lens. The new design of AI Mode in the Google app simplifies the interface, making it more discoverable and less reliant on icons, and offers new functionalities like asking questions about images and PDFs.
