Google has officially launched Search Live across the United States, introducing a new way for users to interact with information through conversational and visual AI capabilities. This feature is now integrated into the Google app for both Android and iOS devices, allowing for real-time, back-and-forth dialogues with Google Search powered by a custom version of the Gemini AI model.
Users can activate Search Live by tapping the new "Live" icon located beneath the search bar in the Google app. This enables hands-free interaction, suitable for multitasking scenarios. The AI provides spoken responses, and users can ask follow-up questions while maintaining the context of the conversation. Previously, Search Live was available through opt-in experiments in Google Labs, but it is now accessible to all English-speaking users in the U.S.
A significant advancement in Search Live is the integration of the device's camera. By activating the camera, users can share their surroundings with the AI, allowing it to interpret and respond to real-world context. This multimodal capability offers practical applications, such as receiving step-by-step guidance for troubleshooting electronics by pointing the camera at a device, or obtaining instant information about landmarks while traveling. This visual search functionality is also integrated into Google Lens, with camera sharing enabled by default when the "Live" option is selected.
Google highlights several use cases for Search Live, including assistance with DIY projects, understanding complex instructions, enhancing travel experiences, and aiding in educational activities. For example, users can point their camera at a board game and ask for rule explanations, or troubleshoot a home theater setup by showing the AI cable connections. The AI can accurately identify objects, products, and games, even with multiple items or unusual orientations.
The launch signifies Google's strategic shift towards more intuitive and conversational search experiences, moving beyond traditional text-based queries. The integration of AI, voice, and visual understanding aims to make information discovery more natural and efficient. While the initial focus is on the U.S. market and English language support, the broader implications suggest a future where search is deeply embedded in daily activities, offering contextual assistance precisely when and where it is needed. The feature also provides links to web sources for deeper exploration.