Google has begun rolling out a major update to its experimental AI Mode in Search across the United States, effective 29 July 2025. The release adds file uploads, persistent planning tools, real-time video queries, and deeper Chrome integration.
Key features
- Drag and drop uploads: Desktop users can now drag an image directly into the search box. Google says PDF support will arrive "within weeks," with additional formats to follow.
- Canvas panel: Selecting "Create Canvas" opens an interactive panel that stores multi-step tasks - such as study guides or travel itineraries - across sessions. The panel updates automatically with each follow-up query.
- Search Live: On mobile, a new "Live" button in Google Lens accepts real-time video input. Point the camera at a scene to receive AI answers that incorporate the live feed.
- Chrome address bar command: On desktop, typing "Ask Google about this page" in the address bar opens a Lens sidebar. Highlighted text or images generate an instant AI Overview and suggest next questions.
The rollout starts today for Search Labs participants in the United States. Google has not provided a timeline for broader availability.
Background
AI Mode entered Search Labs in May 2024 as an opt-in test for generative answers. Image uploads reached mobile users in November 2024. Google I/O 2024 showcased the live video capability under the codename Project Astra - the feature now launches as Search Live.
Google Lens has offered image search in Chrome since 2021, and the new sidebar builds on that work with generative summaries. Google also plans Drive integration and support for more document types in 2025.
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