Google updates Search with a new AI focused search box

In short: Google is rolling out a redesigned Search box that makes it easier to switch between AI summaries and Google’s chat style search.

What happened

Google announced a major set of changes to Google Search at its Google I/O 2026 event. The center of the update is a redesigned Search box that is meant to make AI features feel more connected.

The new design is built to move people between two AI features. One is AI Overviews, which are short AI written summaries shown at the top of results. The other is AI Mode, which works more like a chatbot (like having a back and forth conversation instead of just getting a list of links).

Google says the updated Search box can expand when you type a longer question. It also adds an AI powered autocomplete that tries to continue your question for you (like a helpful assistant finishing your sentence). Google’s Robby Stein told The Verge that if you ask a question in normal everyday language, you will “reliably” see AI Overviews.

If you ask a follow up question inside an AI Overview, Google will send you into AI Mode. Google also says you can jump straight into AI Mode by adding things like documents, photos, videos, and even Chrome tabs to your question.

The rollout starts Tuesday and will reach desktop and mobile devices globally. People who want only traditional links can still choose the “Web” tab.

Why it matters

For regular users, this changes what Search feels like day to day. It is less like a card catalog of links and more like a guided helper that answers and then keeps talking, which may affect how people research, shop, and check facts.

Source: The Verge AI