Google Introduces AI Mode in Search for Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa
Google has officially launched its innovative AI Mode in Search for users across Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, marking a significant advancement in AI-driven search technology. This new feature enhances the search experience by delivering more intuitive, detailed, and context-aware answers, especially for complex, multi-layered inquiries.
Seamless Integration Across Devices
Starting today, AI Mode will be accessible as a dedicated tab on the Search results page and within the Google app on both Android and iOS platforms, ensuring users can easily switch to this enhanced search experience wherever they are.
Powered by Gemini 2.5: Smarter, More Contextual Search
At the heart of AI Mode lies a customized version of Google’s cutting-edge Gemini 2.5 model, which brings sophisticated reasoning and contextual understanding to the forefront of search. Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Africa, emphasized the importance of this launch: “People in this region often have intricate questions, whether planning travel or grasping new ideas. AI Mode transforms how they find and explore information, making the process more natural and comprehensive.”
Revolutionizing Search with Advanced Query Breakdown
AI Mode excels at handling detailed and nuanced questions by employing a unique query fan-out method. This technique dissects a user’s question into multiple subtopics and simultaneously searches across various queries, enabling a deeper exploration of relevant content. For instance, users can now ask: “What are some unique weekend activities in Cape Town for friends who enjoy culinary experiences, live music, and off-the-beaten-path adventures?” or “How do migratory birds navigate thousands of miles during their journeys?”

Multimodal Interaction: Text, Voice, and Visual Inputs
Designed with versatility in mind, AI Mode supports multimodal inputs, allowing users to interact through text, voice commands, or images. By simply tapping the microphone icon or uploading a photo, users can pose questions in the way that feels most natural to them. This flexibility broadens the scope of queries and enriches the search experience.
Enhanced Content Discovery with Transparent Sources
AI Mode’s responses prominently feature links to original web sources, encouraging users to explore a wider variety of content. Data from Google’s AI Overviews indicate that AI-generated results increase user engagement by directing them to a more diverse range of websites and encouraging longer browsing sessions. When the AI’s confidence in an answer is low, the system defaults to traditional search results to maintain reliability.

Commitment to Open Web and Continuous Improvement
Google reaffirms its dedication to supporting the open web ecosystem by ensuring AI Mode’s features align with its established quality and ranking standards. Acknowledging that AI technology is still evolving, the company pledges ongoing enhancements to improve accuracy and user satisfaction. “As with any emerging AI product, perfection won’t come immediately, but we are devoted to refining the experience continuously,” Google stated in a recent blog post.
Looking Ahead
With AI Mode now available in these key African markets, Google is setting a new benchmark for intelligent search that adapts to users’ needs and preferences. This launch not only empowers users with richer, more relevant information but also opens doors for innovative content discovery and engagement across the continent.
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