Google makes it easier to access AI Mode in Chrome on iOS and Android

In a significant update, Google has announced an enhanced accessibility feature for its AI Mode on mobile devices. Starting Wednesday, users can easily engage with AI Mode directly within the Chrome browser by utilizing a new dedicated shortcut button located beneath the search bar on the 'New Tab' page. This convenient shortcut is initially being rolled out in the United States and is expected to expand to an additional 160 countries, accommodating various languages such as Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, and Portuguese among others. By simplifying access to AI Mode, Google aims to encourage users to prefer its services over those of competing platforms. This update follows Google's recent global expansion of AI Mode, which has been made available in 180 new countries and additional languages. Launched in March, AI Mode was developed to compete with popular tools like Perplexity AI and OpenAI's ChatGPT Search. Since its inception, Google has consistently enhanced the tool's functionalities. In a notable recent upgrade, new agentic capabilities were introduced, empowering users to receive assistance with tasks such as booking event tickets and scheduling beauty and wellness appointments. These features first appeared in August, when users could utilize AI Mode to secure restaurant reservations. Furthermore, a Canvas feature was introduced in July, allowing users to create study plans and organize information across multiple sessions in a side panel. The integration of Google Lens also enables users to inquire about content displayed on their desktop screens, making for a more interactive experience.