Google has started rolling out its brand-new AI Mode in countries like the United States, India, Canada and even New Zealand – but not yet in Australia. Though, that could change any day now, and when it does, it will reshape how Australians use Google Search.
In this blog, we’ll break down what Google AI Mode is, how it’s different and (maybe) better than ChatGPT, what it means for your digital brand and how you can start to prepare.
What is Google AI Mode?
Think of Google’s AI Mode as a smarter version of Google Search.
Instead of showing you a list of links to click through, AI Mode uses Google’s Gemini AI to create full-screen, conversational and personalised answers that pull in information from across the web and your own data in places like GMail.
For example:
Instead of typing “family-friendly weekend ideas on the Mornington Peninsula” and scrolling through endless results that you would click in and out of, AI Mode could instantly generate a tailored itinerary – complete with wineries, beaches, accommodation and even a map.
You can then keep the conversation going, asking follow-up questions like “Which of these wineries is best for kids?” and get updated answers, just like you would when chatting with an assistant.
It’s essentially Google Search – but as a conversation.
How is AI Mode different from ChatGPT?
It’s fair to say Google AI Mode looks like ChatGPT. It’s conversational, AI-powered and feels like talking to an assistant. But here’s the difference:
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Real-time information: ChatGPT doesn’t always know what’s happening right now (unless you’re using its web-browsing tools). Google AI Mode pulls in live data from business listings, maps, news, traffic, reviews and more.
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Directly inside Google: Instead of switching between tools (Google for directions, ChatGPT for answers), everything happens in one place.
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Trusted sources: AI Mode highlights where its information comes from, with clickable links to real websites.
It’s more than just a chatbot.
So what does AI Mode mean for Australian businesses?
It’s an important question.
Google will have more control of your brand’s online experience, so it’s important to play nice.
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Current Google Search Goal: To rank #1.
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AI Mode: Well, there’s no longer a #1 result. Instead, AI chooses which businesses, articles or brands to highlight in its curated answers.
That means:
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Businesses with strong Google Business Profiles, positive reviews (on sources like TrustPilot, Product Review and Reddit) and consistent local information are more likely to show up.
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Content that demonstrates expertise and trust (not just keywords) will be prioritised.
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Well-known, credible brands will have an advantage – especially when users ask broad, open-ended questions.
To put it simply: AI Mode will reward businesses that are technically sound, visible locally and seen as trustworthy.
How can Australian businesses prepare?
Even though AI Mode hasn’t launched in Australia yet, there are some things you can do to get ahead.
1. Validate and optimise your Google Business Profile
- Make sure your profile is claimed and verified. Find out how to do that here.
- Fill out EVERY section (hours, services, photos, website, phone number, products, Q&A, etc).
- Keep your details consistent across directories (NAP: Name, Address, Phone).
2. Focus on local SEO signals
- Encourage happy customers to leave detailed reviews.
- Use location-specific keywords on your website (“Melbourne accountant” instead of just “accountant”).
- Create dedicated landing pages for suburbs or regions you serve.
3. Strengthen your content
- Write content that answers real questions that your customers would ask. Tools like KnowYourMarket.ai are helpful in researching what these questions might be.
- Use FAQs, lists and clear summaries (AI loves structured info).
- Show off your expertise with case studies, guides, quotes from key personnel in your business and “how-to” posts.
4. Stay flexible
- When AI Mode launches, expect traffic patterns to shift. You might see fewer clicks overall, but the visitors who do click will be better-qualified leads who are already primed by AI Mode to trust your business.
Want to try Google AI Mode now?
While AI Mode isn’t available in Australia yet, if you’re curious, you can test it out using a VPN set to the US. Just open Google Search and look for the AI Mode tab next to Maps, Images and Shopping.
Google AI Mode is the biggest change to search we’ve seen, well, ever. Instead of sifting through a list of links, Aussies will soon be asking questions and getting conversational answers directly from Google.
It will be fun and scary at the same time, but we’re all in this together.
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