Google is testing a new design for voice search to combine traditional voice queries, AI Mode, song search, and search live in one unified interface.
Google is currently testing a beta version of its app and there are hints the tech giant is looking to make AI more central to everyday search.
The update is only in a beta version on Android as it stands – but it isn’t clear yet, if or when, this will be rolled out to the wider user base.
The new design replaces the microphone icon in the Google search widget with a toolbar at the bottom of the screen. This will make it easier to choose between search, AI mode, search live, and song search – all within the voice search experience.
Standard search is also set to be re-vamped, with a new four-bar waveform, which responds as users speak. This will be transcribed in real time at the top of the screen. Users can then tap the arrow to submit an AI Mode query.
Search live will be focused on conversational exchanges, which sees users ask questions in a back and forth conversational interactions.
The Google app will retain information on how you used the app and reopen the mode based on this.
The redesign continues Google’s push towards AI tools powering the traditionally used features and comes following the wave of updates at its I/O conference earlier this year around search.
Google’s AI powered updates have enjoyed mixed success.
Earlier this week, the company was forced to roll back an AI tool that enabled users to create fake images on Google Earth, less than 24 hours after launch.
The company said in a statement: “We’ve seen geospatial professionals using this feature for a range of useful purposes, however we’ve also seen people sharing screenshots of generated imagery that appear to violate our policies.
“So we’re rolling back this feature in Google Earth while we work on implementing stronger guardrails.”
Nonetheless, Google is indicating more AI tools will be trialled and tested as it develops them.
