Kristina Roberts
Google is expanding its AI Mode in Search with advanced new features, further cementing its vision of making AI a core part of how users engage with its services. The latest updates to AI Mode include the addition of the Gemini 2.5 Pro model and Deep Search capabilities, which are now available exclusively to Google AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers. These tools, while accessible through other avenues, are being directly integrated into AI Mode to reinforce Google’s ambition to transform Search into a more dynamic, AI-first experience.
These upgrades follow announcements made at Google’s I/O conference earlier this year. AI Mode began rolling out to all users in May, and Gemini 2.5 Pro’s Deep Think capability was previewed at the time as part of the roadmap for AI-powered Search enhancements.
Separately from AI Mode, Google is bringing AI-powered phone calling to its core Search service. This feature, first teased through Project Astra at I/O, enables Google’s Gemini AI to make phone calls to local businesses on behalf of users. These calls are limited to tasks like checking availability or confirming prices, helping users gather information without making the calls themselves. When searching for businesses, users may now see an option such as “Have AI check prices,” which initiates a call through Search — not AI Mode. This AI phone calling feature is rolling out today to all Search users in the US, with AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers receiving higher usage limits.
Subscribers to Google AI Pro and AI Ultra also receive exclusive access to Gemini 2.5 Pro, Google’s most advanced AI model, designed for more complex queries like coding or financial analysis. Users can activate this through the AI Mode tab, moving beyond the default AI model. Additionally, Deep Research via Deep Search is being introduced to support those looking for in-depth information for work, studies, or significant life decisions.
Google is rolling out these features gradually. AI-powered calling is now live for all US Search users, while Gemini 2.5 Pro and Deep Research are specifically for AI Pro and AI Ultra subscribers.
With these updates, Google is evolving Search from a simple answer engine into a proactive assistant capable of managing tasks and delivering deeper, more nuanced insights.
