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ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Google had made it easier to upload documents in AI Mode.
- A new plus button allows you to upload files and images for AI analysis.
- The feature is only appearing on desktop mode for now.
Google just rolled out a change designed to help you discover AI Mode in Search.
Without any fanfare or even an official announcement that I could find, Google has added a small plus sign to the main Search page. Hover over it, and you’ll see “Upload files or images.” Click or tap it, and you’ll have the chance to upload a file to learn more about it through AI Mode.
Also: Google search chief talks future of news content amid AI scramble
The ability to upload files and photos already exists, but you have to choose to enter AI Mode. This new button brings that capability to the main Search page, and hopefully to a larger audience that might be wary of AI.
How to try it now (on desktop only)
To have AI Mode analyze something, simply tap the plus sign and upload your document. (Note that you can only upload and analyze one document at a time.)
To give the feature a quick test, I uploaded a document outlining the requirement for a security grant I’m helping a local nonprofit with. I remembered the grant outlining details for door specifications, but I couldn’t remember exactly what it said. When I asked AI mode, it was able to find the pertinent section of the document and relay the details.
While this is a small change, it reveals where Google’s priorities lie — introducing AI into its various products and ensuring users have opportunities to utilize it. There’s utility here for people who already use the feature, too, as it saves you a step in the process.
Also: Google upgrades AI Mode with Canvas and 3 other new features – how to try them
I was able to see the feature on desktop, but it wasn’t present on my mobile browser or mobile app. Given that desktop users are more likely to upload PDFs or other files than mobile users, this makes sense.
When I reached out to Google for more details, a spokesperson confirmed, “You can now upload images or PDFs directly to the Google Search bar on desktop and ask questions about them in AI Mode. It’s another step in making it easier for you to ask anything, anywhere.”
The feature will be extended this week to all places where AI Mode is currently available.
Artificial Intelligence
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