Google has quietly taken its experimental “AI Mode” in Search to the next level. The tech giant now allows users to ask questions about images—thanks to newly added multimodal capabilities. This powerful update brings visual understanding to Google’s AI chatbot, making it smarter and more context-aware than ever.
Currently, this feature is available exclusively to Google One AI Premium subscribers in the U.S., but a broader rollout may happen later this year.
What Is Google AI Mode?
Launched just last month, Google’s AI Mode is designed to handle complex and multi-step queries directly within Search. Think of it as Google’s answer to ChatGPT and Perplexity AI—tools that offer smarter search results using generative AI. With AI Mode, users can pose intricate questions that traditional search engines struggle with.
Now With Multimodal Power: Ask Questions About Any Image
The latest upgrade lets users upload a photo or snap one with their camera and ask questions based on the entire image. Google’s AI will then analyze the photo in full—considering context, object relationships, colors, materials, and even positioning.
For example, if you take a picture of a bookshelf, Google AI Mode will scan every title, identify each book, and suggest related titles—all in a single response. This removes the need for users to enter multiple separate queries.
How This Is Better Than Regular Search
Traditional search usually involves typing in one query at a time, which can be limiting when you’re exploring new ideas or comparing complex data. Google AI Mode, on the other hand, uses multimodal prompts to analyze both the image and its components. That means more comprehensive results with deeper insights.
Whether you’re comparing fashion items, analyzing a scientific diagram, or identifying plant species, this tool allows for much richer interaction with search.
Who Can Use It?
At the moment, this feature is restricted to Google One AI Premium plan subscribers in the United States. While Google hasn’t confirmed an international release date yet, it’s likely this will expand in the coming months.
