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AI Mode

Google AI Mode · Conversational search

AI Mode is Google’s conversational search surface, alongside tabs such as Images or News. Users turn it on deliberately. It relies on query fan-out to produce in-depth answers, with follow-up questions and links to sources.

Standalone definition · 35 words

Category: GEO & AI engines · Published on October 16, 2026 · Updated on October 17, 2026 · By Aslane Samai, SEO & GEO consultant

How does AI Mode work?

AI Mode breaks the question into sub-queries, runs them in parallel, then synthesizes a sourced answer. The user continues with follow-ups, and each turn triggers a new search cycle.

It differs from AI Overviews, which appear without any user action at the top of a classic results page. Both features have been available in France since July 22, 2026.

What does it take to be cited in AI Mode?

According to Google’s documentation on AI features, a page must be indexed and eligible to appear with a snippet in Google Search. Google asks for no specific markup or dedicated file to appear as a supporting link.

The usual controls apply: nosnippet, data-nosnippet and max-snippet limit how content is used.

How do you measure your presence in AI Mode?

Since June 3, 2026, Search Console offers dedicated reports on impressions in Search’s AI features, covering AI Overviews and AI Mode. They provide impressions, pages, countries, dates and devices, with no clicks or queries at this stage. The data is also still counted in the overall performance report.

Frequently asked questions

Does AI Mode replace classic search?

No. It is an additional surface that users activate. Classic search and AI Overviews remain.

Can you separate AI Mode from AI Overviews in Search Console?

Not according to early analyses of the report: it groups both features together.

Does AI Mode use query fan-out?

Yes, it is its core mechanism. Google talks about parallel searches across subtopics; the expression query fan-out comes from the SEO community.