Google Tests Its “AI Mode” in 2025: Could It Change Search Forever?

According to a leaked email*, Google explained that “AI Mode” is:

“Search intelligently research[ing] for you – organizing information into easy-to-digest breakdowns with links to explore content across the web.”

Making it easier for users to find the information they need, the feature is powered by Google Gemini 2.0 and is designed to answer more open-ended and exploratory questions that Google’s current search tools can’t cover effectively enough. 

These questions may encompass:

• Advice on a specific topic – “How many boxes of spaghetti should I buy to feed six adults and 10 children, and have enough for seconds?”
• A comparison between different options – “Compare wool, down, and synthetic jackets in terms of insulation, water resistance, and durability”
• A search exchange that includes follow-up questions – “What do I need to get started with aquascaping?” (followed by) “What are some nearby stores where I can buy supplies?”

The leaked emails also featured alleged information on how this feature might look. When a user makes a query, Google will present them with an “AI Mode” option listed alongside its usual filters, like Google Shopping, Images, Videos, and News.

From here, they can access a chatbox-style interface in full-screen mode. Unlike AI Overviews, this screen will answer the question in more detail. However, you’ll still be able to view three cited website sources at the right-hand side of the screen, which is where your website could appear.

*Source: 9to5Google

Since the transformation of search is already a hot topic among the SEO community, Google’s “AI Mode” certainly adds to the conversation. The feature could influence how users find and interact with information online, and more importantly, whether they click through to your website or not after receiving their AI-powered results.  

While the feature sounds convenient for users, allowing them to easily find answers to their queries, it could have a detrimental effect on the website traffic of small businesses and publishers.

For one, if a user is satisfied with Google’s AI-powered answer, they might not feel the need to click through to individual websites for further information. This could be potentially disastrous for some websites, diminishing the amount of organic traffic they receive from Google Search. 

Author's Notes

Since only a limited number of websites are cited after each “AI Mode” search, this increases the competition. Businesses could be fighting for the top three spots, which also means that basic SEO strategies may need to be revised if they want to keep up with their rivals.

Holly Choules Writer

So, could we be optimizing for AI search rather than traditional search in the future? Well, with the growing popularity of AI search engines like SearchGPT, that could be the case.

Though the implications of Google’s “AI Mode” might sound alarming, there’s still plenty that your business can do to prepare for the future.

Since these AI results pull information from other websites, I predict that content will still be king. If you want to appear in AI-powered searches, you must ensure that your site’s content is high-quality and answers user questions clearly. 

When you next audit your website, think about how you can make your content more helpful for users, whether that’s by offering useful visual examples via imagery, breaking down information into easy-to-read steps, or providing readers with unique insights from your own research.

However, it’s worth noting that this AI tool is still in its infancy, so I wouldn’t let any worries about your website consume you just yet. Instead, keep yourself as informed as possible so you can adjust your strategy effectively. In the meantime, we’ll share any updates to help you stay prepared for whatever comes next.