July 1st Google Doodle Highlights AI Mode: “Search Like Never Before”
Google kicked off the new month with a visually engaging Google Doodle to promote its new AI Mode, reinforcing its broader campaign to reshape how users interact with Search.
Appearing across Android, iOS, and desktop devices in the United States, today’s Doodle invites users to “search like never before” by trying out AI Mode, the company’s most advanced search experience yet.
A Doodle That Feels Like Outer Space
Today’s Doodle features a striking gradient ‘G’ logo—with iconic red, yellow, green, and blue dots—set against a deep, dark background. The aesthetic hints at outer space or the cosmos, reflecting the futuristic nature of AI-enhanced search.
On google.com, both signed-in and anonymous users are greeted by a bouncy animation where Google’s letters morph into the stylized ‘G’ icon. This animation appears:
- On the Google homepage
- In the Google app
- At the top of the Discover feed
Tapping the Doodle redirects users to a dedicated AI Mode landing page, complete with a smartly written AI-generated explanation of the tool’s features and a new gradient-style user interface.
What Is AI Mode?
Unveiled at Google I/O 2025, AI Mode is Google’s answer to generative AI-powered search. Key features include:
- AI Overviews summarizing complex topics
- Search Live (in testing): lets users talk directly to the search bar
- Upcoming camera search capabilities
- Future enhancements like Deep Search, Gmail-based context, and automated agents to help with tasks like ticket booking
Google is using every platform available—Search, Chrome, Discover, and even Reddit ads—to encourage adoption of AI Mode in the U.S.
A Strategic Promotion Push
Today’s Doodle also features a clickable line below the search bar:
“Try AI Mode and search like never before”
This prime real estate is often reserved for major product announcements (e.g., Pixel phones or Google Workspace features), signaling the importance of AI Mode in Google’s product roadmap.
The link redirects users to google.com/aimode, where they can explore how AI Mode works and try it live.
Looking Ahead: Voice, Vision, and Action
Google is doubling down on innovation:
- Search Live will let you have real-time voice conversations with AI
- Camera Mode (coming soon) will let you visually search using your phone’s lens
- Personal context tools will integrate Gmail and Calendar for customized answers
- Agentic capabilities may eventually help you shop, book flights, or plan schedules directly in search
