Google Tests New AI Mode to Boost Clicks

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Google’s Robby Stein announced that in the coming weeks, Digital Phablet will be testing updates to AI Mode designed to boost user engagement with publishers. He shared on social media that Google has been exploring various ways to display links that are most beneficial to both users and website owners.

Stein mentioned three key changes currently in the pipeline, with potential for more to follow:

1. The introduction of embedded link carousels within AI Mode responses on mobile devices, in addition to the existing desktop version.
2. The expansion of inline links, which are embedded directly within text, to improve how links are shown in responses.
3. An upcoming Web Guide feature, initially tested in the Labs section, will be integrated into the main “All” tab instead of just the web tab, providing organized, useful web links—especially for complex queries.

There was also some ambiguity around whether link-only cards in AI Mode were part of a test or a bug, sparking discussions among users.

Stein emphasized that the team is focused on making AI-powered search experiences more helpful by highlighting relevant links and encouraging further exploration. Data suggests users prefer links embedded within responses when contextualized properly and that these links are more likely to be clicked when users understand what they’re about and where they lead.

Further updates aim to improve how inline links are presented in AI responses by training the models to identify optimal moments and contexts for link placement. Users might notice fluctuations as these features roll out, but the long-term goal is to increase the prominence of inline links.

The Web Guide feature offers a smarter way to surface quality web links, making it easier to navigate difficult or complex queries. Early feedback from testing has been positive, and eventually, users who opt in will see this feature across more sections of the search interface when relevant.

Overall, this evolution of AI Mode and the Search Results Page demonstrates a continued effort to enhance the web experience, with attention to when and how links are shown to maximize usefulness for users. Feedback from the community continues to influence development strategies.