Google is taking visual search to the next level with a powerful new feature in its experimental AI Mode. The tech giant announced this week that users can now upload photos and ask complex questions about them, marking a significant leap beyond traditional image searches.
How the New Visual Search Works
The upgraded AI Modes combines Google Lens technology with advanced multimodal capabilities to understand images in remarkable detail. Unlike basic image recognition, this system can:
- Analyze relationships between objects in a scene
- Identify materials, colors and spatial arrangements
- Process multi-layered questions about visual content
A technique called “query fan-out” allows the AI to break down complex inquiries into multiple sub-questions, delivering more nuanced answers than standard search results.
Real – World Applications
Imagine snapping a picture of your home library and asking:
“If I enjoyed these books, what similar highly-related titles would you recommended?”
The AI will:
- Recognize each book in your collection
- Generate personalized recommendations
- Provide purchase links for suggested titles
Availability and Expansion
Previously limited to Google One Premium subscribers, AI Mode is now rolling out to millions of Google Labs participants. This expansion signals Google’s commitment to competing with AI-powered search alternatives like Perplexity and ChatGPT Search.
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