Google has added image search to its AI Mode in Search, allowing users to upload pictures and ask questions about them.
This upgrade blends Google Lens with Gemini, Google’s AI model. Together, they give richer, more visual search experiences.
AI Mode is now available to millions more users in the U.S.
What Is AI Mode?
One of these features in Search Labs is AI Mode, which generates detailed, AI-powered search results. These consist of summaries, links to other web pages, and follow-ups.
It’s built for complex, multi-part questions. Queries in AI Mode are twice as long as regular searches.
Users can rely on AI for:
- Product comparisons
- Open-ended questions
- Travel planning
- Step-by-step guides
New: Multimodal Search with Images
One of the newest capabilities of Google AI Search is being able to upload images and ask questions about what’s in them.
Here’s how it works:
- Upload a photo
- Ask a question about it
- Get AI-generated results with links
Google’s system doesn’t merely recognize objects. Now it knows how they’re related to each other.
For instance, a photo of a bookshelf. AI Mode can pinpoint specific titles, examine genres, and recommend similar titles.
Gemini processes the image as a whole. Lens handles object recognition. Together, they provide deeper insights than typical search.
Why This Matters for SEO and Marketing
For Cybertegic, a digital marketing agency in Pasadena, this shift brings new priorities. Google’s growing ability to “see” images means visual content is now more valuable.
Products must appear well-labeled and high-quality across all platforms. SEO isn’t just about keywords—it’s about how things look, too.
Ecommerce listings, lifestyle photos, and product galleries can now impact visibility in AI-powered search results.
Also, people are using longer queries. Marketing content should reflect that complexity.
Who Can Use It?
AI Mode is still in Search Labs. To access it, users must:
- Be in the U.S. and over 18
- Use the latest Google app or Chrome
- Enable Search History
AI Mode is accessible via the Google homepage or google.com/aimode.
Final Thought
Google’s search is evolving fast. Visual search is no longer experimental—it’s essential for future-proof SEO.
