Google Adds AI Mode To Android And IOS App Search Bars

Google adds an AI Mode shortcut to the Search bar for Android and iOS users in the United States (US). This feature can provide quick access to AI without opening another menu. 

The new AI Mode icon now replaces the microphone and Google Lens buttons in the Search bar. This change makes the bar's appearance more focused on AI features. 

The design is a magnifying glass with a Gemini-like glow in a Google-colored circle. This icon appears permanently, even when users scroll through the Discover page. 

As part of this change, Google is also simplifying the display under the Search bar. Several old features such as Translate, Homework and Voice Search have been removed. 

Now, only the Screenshot feature remains. Voice input and Google Lens are still available, but with a more minimalist appearance. 

Quoted from 9to5Google, Sunday (5/18/2025), Google began testing this display since April 2025. Now, this feature has been released more widely for iOS and Android users, including the beta version. 

The AI ??Mode shortcut also appears when users view search results. However, Google is still testing a similar feature for home screen widgets. 

In the latest update, the full-screen interface of 'Ask AI Mode' now has a quick access button to search history in the top right corner. This feature makes it easier for users to see previous interactions without having to repeat the search. 

Tag: AI Google IOS