Google's AI Mode adds images as search giant tries to keep pace with rivals

Core Insights - The company is enhancing its AI Mode by integrating visual results, allowing users to receive image-based responses for queries that are not easily articulated in text [3][4][5] - The introduction of visual results aims to improve user experience in areas such as shopping and decor inspiration, addressing the limitations of text-based answers [4][5] Group 1: AI Mode Features - AI Mode was initially launched as a text-based tool in May 2023, but now includes the capability to generate visual results [3][5] - Users can input prompts for visual inspiration, such as home decor ideas, and receive a series of images in response [4] - The visual results are designed to enhance the shopping experience, allowing users to see shoppable options directly linked to retailers [5] Group 2: Technological Integration - The visual results in AI Mode leverage capabilities from the AI model Gemini 2.5, Google Search, Lens, and Image search [5] - The company views this integration as a significant advancement in the potential of AI-powered search [5]