Google just launched ‘Search Live’ — here’s why you’ll want to try it

2 weeks ago 3

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If you’ve ever wished you could just talk to Google Search the way you do with ChatGPT or Gemini Live, I've got good news: starting today, you can if you're in the United States.

Google has officially rolled out a new feature called Search Live with voice support inside AI Mode, giving users the ability to have a free-flowing, back-and-forth conversation with Search.

Here’s how it works

If you’re enrolled in the AI Mode experiment in Labs, you’ll now see a “Live” icon in the Google app on Android or iOS.

Tap it, start talking, and Google will respond with an AI-generated voice answer. Even better, the conversation stays open, so you can ask follow-up questions naturally, just like you would with a chatbot.

For example, if you ask “What are some tips for packing for a weekend getaway?" you’ll get a spoken answer and links to helpful web pages right on your screen.

If you want to dig deeper, just ask another question, no need to start a new search or tap around.

Search Live works in the background, too

No need to keep Google open, you can switch over to another app while continuing the voice conversation.

There’s also a “transcript” button so you can see the text version of the conversation and even type responses if needed. This is useful if you want to recall important parts of the conversations to refer to later.

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Behind the scenes, Google says this experience is powered by a custom version of Gemini with advanced voice capabilities, combined with Search’s existing information systems.

That means you still get the familiar reliability of Search, but with the added convenience of natural voice conversation.

How to try it, plus looking ahead

You’ll need to opt in to the AI Mode experiment in Labs within the Google app on Android and iOS.

Once you do, just tap the new Live icon under the search bar and start chatting.

In typical Google fashion, there’s more to come. In the months ahead, Google plans to add new features like camera-based interaction, meaning you’ll soon be able to “show” Search what you’re seeing and continue the conversation in real time.

It’s another sign that Google is steadily moving toward a more conversational, multimodal version of Search; one that could eventually feel a lot more like an AI assistant than a traditional search engine.

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Amanda Caswell is an award-winning journalist, bestselling YA author, and one of today’s leading voices in AI and technology. A celebrated contributor to various news outlets, her sharp insights and relatable storytelling have earned her a loyal readership. Amanda’s work has been recognized with prestigious honors, including outstanding contribution to media.

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