Google is rolling out major updates to AI Mode in Search, aimed especially at students, educators, and researchers.
Key improvements:
Image uploads on desktop
Users can now upload photos (like math problems or handwritten notes) into AI Mode on desktop, not just mobile, and get instant answers or explanations.
PDF uploads and document analysis
Coming soon: the ability to upload PDFs such as lecture slides or study guides. AI Mode will be able to summarize content and answer follow-up questions, combining the file with live web context.
Canvas
A new side panel where users can create multi-step workflows such as study plans or research summaries. It supports saved sessions and will soon let you upload syllabi and documents for tailored insights.
Search Live with video input
Mobile users can point their phone camera at assignments or objects and have real-time, conversational Q&A with AI Mode. This feature builds on Project Astra’s live vision capabilities.
Ask Google About This Page in Chrome
You can now trigger AI Mode directly from Chrome’s address bar. Selecting any element on a page (including diagrams) opens a sidebar with a contextual AI summary and links.
These features are now rolling out to AI Mode Labs users in the US and India.
