Google is significantly amplifying its AI presence in India, introducing advanced reasoning capabilities and innovative features tailored for local users. This move signals a major step in making AI more accessible and relevant to the diverse Indian population.
A key element of this expansion is the rollout of "AI Mode" within Google Search. This new feature, currently an experiment in Google Labs, allows users to pose more complex and nuanced questions than traditional search typically handles. AI Mode leverages a custom version of Gemini 2.5, Google's advanced large language model, to provide detailed, AI-generated summaries and insights, rather than just a list of links. This is particularly useful for intricate, multi-faceted queries that would normally require multiple searches. For example, instead of searching separately for travel routes, kid-friendly stopovers, and accommodation options for a family trip, users can ask a single, comprehensive question and receive an AI-powered overview with relevant details and actionable links.
AI Mode employs a "query fan-out" technique, breaking down complex questions into subtopics and simultaneously processing them to deliver richer, more comprehensive responses. Moreover, it supports multi-step reasoning, multimodal inputs (voice, text, and images via Google Lens), and contextual follow-up questions, enabling a more conversational and intuitive search experience. For instance, users can take a photo of a plant and ask AI Mode to identify it and provide care instructions, followed by asking where to place it for optimal growth. This multimodal approach is available on the Google app for Android and iOS.
Google is also emphasizing language accessibility. Gemini, Google's AI chatbot, already supports voice interactions in Hindi and eight other Indian languages, with plans to add more. This multilingual focus extends to Google Search, enabling users to "ask with video" by uploading a video for AI-powered analysis. Project Vaani, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), aims to create an AI-based language model that understands diverse Indian languages and dialects by gathering speech data across India. Google intends to support over 100 Indian languages, ensuring that AI benefits reach a wider audience.
To foster responsible AI development, Google has established a Google Safety Engineering Center (GSEC) in Hyderabad, its first in the Asia-Pacific region. This center focuses on tackling online threats, combating scams and fraud, bolstering security for businesses and governments, and advancing research in online safety. Google has also unveiled a Safety Charter for India's AI-led Transformation, addressing user safety, cybersecurity, and responsible AI development.
Google is investing in skilling initiatives to equip Indians with AI capabilities. The AI Skills House aims to provide AI training to 10 million Indians through accessible digital courses on platforms like YouTube and Google Cloud Skills Boost. Google.org is supporting organizations like Central Square Foundation and Rocket Learning to promote AI awareness and literacy among students and underserved communities.
These initiatives collectively demonstrate Google's commitment to empowering India through AI, making it more accessible, relevant, and safe for individuals, businesses, and the nation as a whole. By combining advanced AI models with a focus on local languages, skilling, and safety, Google is positioning India at the forefront of the global AI revolution.
