Google is making a bold move by testing a new feature on its classic Search homepage. You might soon notice that the iconic “I’m Feeling Lucky” button under the search bar is no longer there. In its place, Google is trying out “AI Mode.”
This new feature is part of Google’s recent efforts to improve how you use Search with the help of artificial intelligence. It first introduced this AI-powered search tool earlier in May, and now, it’s beginning to roll out for testing.
A quiet test in the Labs environment
According to a Google spokesperson, “AI Mode” is being tested quietly in Google’s Labs environment. This is where Google often tries out new ideas before deciding whether they’re ready for a wider release.
Is this new? Ai Mode button on the Google search box on the https://t.co/LevOxulRt9 homepage @rustybrick @glenngabe pic.twitter.com/r7tQcQqtj5
— Damien (andell) (@AndellDam) May 10, 2025
So far, not everyone can see the new feature. It’s only available to a small group of users for now. And just because it’s being tested doesn’t mean it’s guaranteed to launch publicly. Google might still change its plans depending on feedback and performance.
This kind of change is rare for Google. The Search homepage has mostly looked the same for years, with only a few minor updates now and then. The “I’m Feeling Lucky” button has been a staple since the early days of Google, letting users skip straight to the top search result with one click.
Google I/O could bring bigger AI news
The timing of this test is interesting. It’s happening just days before Google’s annual developer conference, Google I/O. This event is often where Google reveals its biggest updates and future plans. With so much focus on artificial intelligence right now, there’s a good chance that “AI Mode” is only the beginning.
At the upcoming Google I/O, you might hear about even more AI-powered tools and features. Google has been working hard to catch up with fast-growing platforms like ChatGPT and other AI services. By adding AI to its most well-known product—the search engine—Google hopes to stay ahead.
AI Mode could make searching faster and smarter by giving you helpful answers directly, instead of just showing a list of links. But we’ll have to wait and see how it works in real life and whether users like the change.
Pressure from rivals and a shift in search habits
There’s another reason Google might be moving quickly with AI. In a recent court hearing, an Apple executive said that last month, Google searches made through the Safari browser dropped for the first time. This change is being linked to the growing popularity of AI tools like ChatGPT.
With more people trying out AI to find answers, Google could feel pressured to keep its place as the top search engine. Introducing “AI Mode” might be a way to show that it’s not being left behind.
You won’t see “AI Mode” for now unless you’re part of the test group. However, the fact that Google is considering replacing such a well-known feature suggests that big things are coming. Keep an eye on Google I/O, as it could be the stage for a whole new way to search.
