Google Uses Doodle to Spotlight AI Mode: Gemini-Powered Search Takes Center Stage
Google Uses Doodle – On July 1, Google took a rare step by turning its iconic homepage Doodle into a full-blown animated promotion for “AI Mode,” its new conversational search experience. Instead of celebrating a cultural figure or event, the tech giant decided to highlight its most ambitious product yet a Gemini-powered AI tool that changes the way people search online. This move marks a significant moment in Google’s global strategy to transition users toward AI-based interaction.
Google Uses Doodle to Drive Attention Toward Conversational Search
AI Mode, powered by Google’s Gemini large language model, was first unveiled in March 2025. After quietly testing the waters in select regions, Google has now rolled out this futuristic feature to Indian users as well. Available via Search Labs on the Google app, the feature allows users to ask complex questions and receive responses in a natural, chat-like format. With support for voice, image, and text queries, it’s among the most dynamic features ever introduced in Google Search. Google Uses Doodle
The Doodle promo represents Google Uses Doodle’s aggressive push to familiarise billions of users with its AI-powered vision for search. The tech company has even swapped out its “I’m Feeling Lucky” button in the past to promote AI Mode, clearly showing that this tool is no longer an experiment it’s the future.
What Makes AI Mode Different?
AI Mode goes beyond regular keyword-based search. It uses query fan-out technology to break down user input into several intent layers. That means if you ask a multi-part question, like “Best AI tools recommended by tech leaders,” AI Mode understands your request and gives an intelligent, citation-rich answer. Unlike earlier AI Overviews, which offered short generative snippets, AI Mode delivers full-scale conversational interactions.
The interface also provides features like:
- Personalised suggestions using Gmail or Calendar (if enabled)
- Real-time data visualisation for finance, weather, or sports
- Virtual try-on experiences for online shopping
India Launch and User Reactions
India became the first major market outside the U.S. to get AI Mode in June 2025. Users can access it through the Google app’s Search Labs on Android and iOS. The July 1 animated Doodle was a big part of this rollout, designed to grab attention and educate users.
According to Elizabeth Reid, Google VP and Head of Search, “This is not just a feature launch. It’s a step forward in how we want people to search: smarter, faster, and more intuitively.”
However, AI Mode isn’t for everyone. Experts like Eugene Levin, president of Semrush, believe it fits best for complex, exploratory searches. Many users will still prefer the classic interface for simpler, fact-based questions.
Why Google’s AI Bet Matters Now
With rivals like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Anthropic’s Claude, and Perplexity AI rapidly gaining traction, Google is taking no chances. The bold homepage shift and visual Doodle show Google’s intent to lead, not follow. It’s trying to redefine what search means in an era where AI can answer, recommend, and interact.
AI Mode signals a future where search engines don’t just retrieve information they understand it, interpret it, and deliver it as if you’re speaking to a smart assistant. By putting it front and center on the homepage, Google is sending a message: the age of Gemini-powered search has officially arrived.
Conclusion:
Google uses Doodle not just as a decorative change, but as a strategic weapon in the AI race. With AI Mode now live in India and prominently promoted, Google is rewriting the rules of digital search one smart conversation at a time.
