Google has announced upgrades to its AI Overviews in Search, now powered by the Gemini 3 model as the default. The update allows users to ask follow-up questions through a chat interface that leads into AI Mode conversations. This rollout aims to make searches more conversational and accurate globally on mobile devices.
Google revealed on January 27, 2026, that it is enhancing its AI Overviews feature in Search by making Gemini 3 the default model. Previously, AI Overviews relied on Gemini 2.5 models, with Gemini 3 used selectively for complex queries via a router system introduced last November. The shift to Gemini 3 across all users is expected to improve the credibility and relevance of summaries, as the new model performs better on knowledge-based benchmarks—Gemini 3 Flash, for instance, more than doubled its score compared to the prior version.
A key addition is the integration of a chat window for follow-up questions directly from AI Overviews, bridging to AI Mode for deeper interactions. Robby Stein, Google's vice president of product for Search, explained: "In our testing, we’ve found that people prefer an experience that flows naturally into a conversation — and that asking follow-up questions while keeping the context from AI Overviews makes Search more helpful." He added, "It’s one fluid experience with prominent links to continue exploring: a quick snapshot when you need it, and deeper conversation when you want it."
The update encourages natural language queries over keyword strategies, aligning Search more closely with chatbot interactions like those in Gemini. It is rolling out globally on mobile devices starting today. While this promises more helpful results, it raises concerns for publishers, as the expanded AI features may further reduce clicks on traditional search links, keeping users within Google's ecosystem.
Google's broader strategy includes integrating AI across products, such as personalized intelligence that tailors results using data from apps like Google Photos—for example, suggesting ice cream spots based on past vacation photos.
