As students, parents, and educators gear up for the academic year, Google has rolled out a suite of robust updates to its Search AI Mode, designed to make learning, organization, and exploration smarter and more personalized than ever before.

Visual and Document Q&A: Image & PDF Support Arrive on Desktop

Previously available only on Android and iOS, AI Mode’s ability to answer nuanced questions about images now lands on desktop browsers. Got a complex diagram, a scanned worksheet, or a key visual from class notes? Simply use the new “AI Mode” button on the Google homepage (US and India, English, ages 18+) to upload an image and start asking in-depth questions.

Google is taking it a step further: in upcoming weeks, users can upload PDF documents as well. Imagine uploading psychology lecture slides and digging deeper into the theories presented—AI Mode not only analyzes your document, it cross-references reliable web sources and returns insightful AI-generated answers, complete with links for further reading. The feature is expected to expand to support even more file types, including documents stored in Google Drive.

Canvas: Organize, Plan, and Stay on Track

Big projects and exam season demand more than just access to information—they require organization. Google’s new “Canvas” feature in AI Mode is the answer. This dynamic tool lets users build, adapt, and refine study plans, project outlines, or travel itineraries over multiple sessions, all in a handy side panel that updates live.

To get started, ask AI Mode for help—like drafting a study plan for finals—then tap “Create Canvas.” Instantly, AI Mode compiles resources and suggestions in a visual workspace, and you can further tailor your plan with additional context from personal files, class notes, or syllabi.

This feature will initially launch to users enrolled in the AI Mode Labs experiment (English, 18+, US only), with desktop browser support coming soon.

Search Live: Real-Time Answers with Video Input

Blending the power of Project Astra and Google Lens, Google’s new Search Live feature brings search into the physical world. On mobile devices, users enrolled in AI Mode Labs (US) can now access Search Live, which lets you ask questions about anything your camera sees in real time.

By opening Google Lens, tapping the Live icon, and pointing the camera, users can engage in interactive, back-and-forth conversations with Google Search AI. Whether it’s identifying moving objects, breaking down complex visuals, or talking through concepts on the spot, it’s “like having an expert on speed dial” with relevant, clickable links at your fingertips.

Enhance Web Browsing with Lens and AI Mode Integration

Soon, Chrome users will notice a new “Ask Google about this page” option in the address bar. With AI Mode and Lens integration, users can quickly select text, images, or diagrams on any website or PDF, receiving an instant AI-powered overview in the side panel and the option to ask follow-up questions or dive deeper for clarity.

This capability makes learning on the web even more interactive and efficient: struggling with a geometry diagram? Want background on a concept in an online article? Just highlight, click, and explore, right within your browser.

With these enhancements, Google Search’s AI Mode aims to revolutionize how people find, interact with, and organize information—making the back-to-school experience sharper, smoother, and more productive for everyone.