Google is introducing a new feature that allows users to ask follow-up questions directly from AI Overviews. These are the AI-generated summaries that appear at the top of Google Search results. This change enables a conversational back-and-forth with AI Mode, which is Google’s conversational search feature designed for complex questions.
In a related update, Google announced it is making Gemini 3 the new default model for AI Overviews worldwide. The company stated this upgrade will provide users with a best-in-class AI response directly on the search results page. These announcements are part of Google’s broader effort to transform Search from a static list of results into a more interactive and AI-driven experience.
Robby Stein, VP of Product for Google Search, explained that people use Search for a wide variety of needs. For simple queries like a sports score, a quick result is sufficient. However, for complex questions or deep exploration of a topic, users should be able to seamlessly engage with a powerful conversational AI. Google’s testing indicates that users prefer an experience that flows naturally into a conversation, and that preserving context from AI Overviews when asking follow-ups makes Search more helpful. The new design aims to create a single, fluid experience, allowing users to move from a quick snapshot to a deeper conversation as needed.
These updates follow Google’s recent announcement about bringing “Personal Intelligence” to AI Mode. This feature enables the AI to access your Gmail and Google Photos to provide more personalized responses. Personal Intelligence was first introduced in the Gemini app earlier this month, allowing the AI assistant to tailor its responses by connecting information across your Google ecosystem, including Gmail, Photos, Search, and YouTube history.
Additionally, Google recently expanded AI Overviews to Gmail. This integration lets users search their inbox using natural language to get quick answers, moving beyond traditional keyword searches and the need to open multiple emails to find specific information. This was announced alongside the debut of a new AI Inbox feature.