In today's era of AI, AI search engines have become the core tool for people to acquire knowledge and answer questions. On December 11, 2025, tech giant Google made a significant update to its AI driven search function - "AI Mode". This move is like dropping a bombshell in the search field, attracting widespread attention and bringing users a brand new search experience.
Update highlights: Rich source links and intelligent content explanations
A significant highlight of this update is the addition of more embedded source links to search results. In the past, users may only see a few links when searching for information, and it was difficult to quickly determine the relevance of these links to their query content.
Nowadays, when users search for questions such as "how to create a retro home style with a low budget," the first thing that catches their eye is a summary. This summary is like a thoughtful guide, accurately extracting key content from the article, such as recommendations for purchasing second-hand goods, ideas for renovating building details (such as techniques for replacing lines and hardware), and various DIY projects.
After summarizing, the relevant website links are presented in a carousel format for users to browse one by one. Moreover, in future AI mode responses, users will also discover more words or phrases with hyperlinks. Each link is accompanied by carefully generated instructions by AI, which are like keys that help users easily understand the importance of the link and quickly find the information they truly need.
Background update: Responding to regulatory scrutiny and market changes
This update is not an isolated incident, but is taking place against the backdrop of increased scrutiny of generative AI search by EU regulatory agencies. A few days ago, the European Commission launched an investigation into Google to assess whether it had violated competition rules and failed to provide "appropriate compensation" when using content from online publishers. In such a context, Google's update is undoubtedly a proactive response aimed at improving the transparency and credibility of search results, and enhancing users' trust in search results.
Meanwhile, Google is also keenly aware of market changes. When AI generated summaries appear in search results, users' willingness to click on traditional links decreases. Although Google has stated that the overall click through rate remains "relatively stable", in order to further alleviate concerns about its "blocking" website traffic, Google has actively taken action and launched pilot cooperation with multiple media outlets.
Collaboration Exploration: Assisting News Agencies in Attracting Audiences
The publishing team participating in this collaboration is strong, including well-known media such as The Guardian, The Washington Post, and The Washington Observer. Google has conducted a series of creative experiments, such as adding AI written summary summaries to articles on its news platform. These summaries are concise and clear, which can quickly attract users' attention and guide them to further read the entire text.
In addition, Google has partnered with organizations such as the Associated Press to push real-time information to users through the Gemini app. This measure not only provides users with timely and accurate information, but also expands the communication channels for news organizations and attracts more audiences. In order to further enhance the user experience, Google has also promoted the "preference source" feature to English speaking users worldwide. This means that users can easily find their favorite media sources and meet personalized information needs when browsing news and information streams.
Industry Impact: Leading the New Trends in the Search Field
The upgrade of Google's AI search function undoubtedly sets a new benchmark for the entire search industry. In today's world of massive and complex information, users have increasingly high demands for the accuracy and reliability of search results. Google has not only improved the quality of search results but also enhanced the interaction between users and information by adding source links and providing intelligent content explanations.
This update has also prompted other search engine companies to re-examine their search functions and consider how to better meet user needs. It can be foreseen that the search field will develop towards greater transparency, intelligence, and personalization in the future. Search engine companies will continue to increase their investment in AI technology research and application to enhance their competitiveness.
The upgrade of Google's AI search function this time is a profound change. It not only brings users a better and more convenient search experience, but also injects new vitality into the development of the search industry. With the continuous advancement of technology and changes in the market, we have reason to expect more innovation and breakthroughs in the search field, bringing more convenience to people's lives.
