Here are some of the options Google is testing with ‘Search Live’ in AI Mode

Google has begun experimenting with a new conversational voice-based feature named ‘Search Live’ within its AI Mode for Search. First introduced during the Google I/O 2025 event, this capability is now gradually becoming available to a limited number of users in the United States through the Google app on both Android and iOS platforms.

Unlike the dedicated Gemini assistant interface, Search Live is embedded directly into the core Google Search function, providing a new and more intuitive way to engage with information. This integration allows users to interact using natural spoken language rather than relying solely on typed queries. It is designed to enable real-time, back-and-forth conversations where users can pose questions verbally and receive spoken answers, making the search process more seamless and interactive.

With Search Live, users can simply speak their queries and listen to responses delivered by Google’s AI, eliminating the need to scroll through a list of traditional search links. The system also allows for conversational follow-ups, offering a more natural progression in the information-gathering process. For those who prefer reading over listening, there’s an option to mute the audio and view the transcript of the AI’s response. This feature is powered by Project Astra, Google’s advanced AI model that processes spoken input on the fly, functioning almost like a voice assistant embedded within Search. A similar technology also underpins the “Live in Gemini” experience.

When Search Live is accessible, users will notice a sparkle-themed waveform icon beneath the standard Search bar. When it is activated, the voice feature is activated, providing Cosmo, Neso, Terra, and Cassini as distinct voice personalities. Notably, the inclusion of this feature has replaced the older shortcut that opened Google Lens directly from the gallery.

This voice feature is part of Google’s broader AI Mode initiative, which redefines the conventional search approach. Rather than listing links in response to keyword queries, AI Mode focuses on delivering conversational answers, context-aware responses, visual elements, and follow-up prompts tailored to user needs. While Google has plans to further expand this technology to incorporate live camera input for even more interactive searches, that capability has not yet been introduced.