Google is rolling out another enhancement to its AI capabilities with a new feature called Search Live. Appearing within the Google app for both iOS and Android, this function aims to create a more dynamic and interactive search experience. For now, access is limited to users in the US who have opted into the AI Mode experiment through Google Labs.
The company bills Search Live as a way to have a “free-flowing, back-and-forth voice conversation with Search,” making it ideal for users who are multitasking or on the go. After tapping a new ‘Live’ icon, you can speak your question and follow up naturally, as if talking to an assistant. The feature can run in the background while you use other apps, and a ‘Transcript’ option is available to switch to text. Throughout the conversation, relevant web links will appear on the screen, allowing you to explore topics further.
This new addition raises questions about its relationship with the existing Gemini Live feature, which offers very similar functionality. According to Google, Search Live is powered by a custom version of Gemini with advanced voice capabilities tailored specifically for the main search app. In the coming months, Google plans to add camera integration, allowing users to show the AI what they’re seeing in real-time—a capability that mirrors Gemini Live.
As Search Live rolls out, the distinction between Google’s various AI offerings continues to evolve, embedding conversational AI more deeply into the core search product used by billions.
