Google is testing a new feature called “AI Mode” that may replace the long-standing “I’m Feeling Lucky” button on its search homepage. This change is part of Google’s efforts to integrate more artificial intelligence into its search experience.
What Is AI Mode?
AI Mode is an experimental feature that provides users with AI-generated answers to their search queries. Unlike traditional search results that list multiple links, AI Mode aims to deliver direct, conversational responses powered by Google’s Gemini 2.0 model. This model enhances the system’s reasoning capabilities and supports multimodal inputs, including text, images, and voice .
The feature is currently available to a limited number of users in the U.S. through Google’s experimental Labs environment. Users have reported seeing the AI Mode button in various locations on the search page, including within the search bar and replacing the “I’m Feeling Lucky” button beneath it .
Why Replace “I’m Feeling Lucky”?
The “I’m Feeling Lucky” button has been a fixture on Google’s homepage since the company’s early days. It allows users to bypass the search results page and go directly to the top-ranked website for their query. However, with the rise of AI-driven search tools, Google is exploring ways to make search more efficient and user-friendly.
By introducing AI Mode, Google aims to provide more direct and comprehensive answers to user queries, reducing the need to sift through multiple search results. This shift reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging AI to enhance the search experience .
User Reactions and Future Plans
The testing of AI Mode has elicited mixed reactions from users. Some appreciate the potential for quicker, more accurate answers, while others are nostalgic about the possible removal of the iconic “I’m Feeling Lucky” button.
Google has stated that AI Mode is one of many experiments and that not all tested features will necessarily become permanent . The company is expected to share more details about its AI-powered search initiatives at the upcoming Google I/O conference.The Verge
