Google has begun rolling out a new AI Mode to the Chrome address bar, known as the omnibox, for users in the United States. The update forms part of a wider set of artificial intelligence features being introduced to the browser, including the integration of Gemini, contextual page-aware prompts, stronger scam protection, and faster password management.
What the new AI features bring
With AI Mode, Chrome users can now type directly into the search bar on desktop to ask follow-up questions or explore information in more depth. This feature is designed to create a more conversational experience when searching online.
Google is also introducing contextual prompts linked to the page a user is viewing. When activated, these prompts trigger an AI Overview that appears on the right-hand side of the browser window. This allows people to continue browsing the page while interacting with AI Mode, without having to switch tabs.
At present, the feature is only available in English and limited to U.S. users, though Google has confirmed that international expansion is planned.
Gemini comes to Chrome
Gemini, Google’s AI model, is also being rolled out to Chrome on both Mac and Windows devices in the U.S. It is capable of simplifying complex information, summarising multiple open tabs, and consolidating key details into one clear view.
The system connects with services such as Calendar, YouTube, and Maps, enabling users to skip to a specific point in a video, check location details, or schedule meetings without leaving Chrome. Google has announced that future updates will add “agentic capabilities,” allowing Gemini to perform actions on the web such as booking appointments or placing orders. These tasks will include the option to stop the process at any time.
For businesses, Google has stated that access to Gemini in Chrome will be introduced “in the coming weeks” through its Workspace platform, with enterprise-grade protections in place.
Security and browsing improvements
In addition to its search updates, Google is enhancing Chrome’s security tools. The Safe Browsing feature now uses Gemini Nano to help detect scams that mimic technical support services. This protection will soon be extended to block fake virus alerts and fraudulent giveaways.
Chrome is also using AI to reduce the number of spam notifications and intrusive permission requests that can disrupt browsing. Meanwhile, the browser will soon be able to automatically update compromised passwords on supported sites with a single click, offering users faster and stronger protection against online threats.
The addition of AI Mode to the address bar means users can ask more natural questions and receive follow-up answers without leaving the search box. This shift may change how people engage with search results, encouraging content that provides comparisons and directly addresses related questions.
Page-aware prompts also create new opportunities for exploring connected topics without disrupting the browsing experience, potentially altering how users move from one article to another.
Google has described the current release as “the biggest upgrade to Chrome in its history.” The company said the new AI features will roll out gradually to more countries and languages in the coming months.
