How to use Google’s new AI agents to go beyond your standard searches
Source: TechCrunch
Continuous background agents
Unlike traditional search tools that respond only when prompted, Google’s information agents operate continuously in the background, 24/7. They keep users informed about their interests without the need to repeatedly search for the same information each day.
Synthesis and insights
Instead of delivering a simple list of links, the agents can:
- Synthesize information from multiple sources
- Explain why something matters
- Compare perspectives
- Provide actionable insights
In many ways, these agents are the next evolution of Google Alerts (launched in 2003), but they go far beyond simple notifications.
Example use cases
- Stock market: Create an agent focused on specific companies, share prices, or economic trends. It can monitor market activity, track breaking news, summarize earnings reports, alert users to major changes, and provide summary links.
- Everyday tasks: Track flight prices for upcoming trips, monitor sports teams and live events, follow breaking news, keep tabs on housing or job‑market trends, and watch weather or traffic conditions.
Image credit: Google
How to use the feature
- Open AI Mode in Google Search.
- Enter a prompt, e.g., “Keep me updated on nearby movie tickets for The Mandalorian and Grogu.”
- When relevant information appears, the Google app sends a push notification.
- Your active tracked topics are listed in the AI Mode history, where you can manage, refine, or turn off an alert.
Availability
Information agents will be available this summer. Google is first rolling them out to Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the United States, with additional markets to follow later.
Search redesign
Alongside the agents, Google introduced a major redesign of Search (TechCrunch article). Highlights include:
- A reimagined “intelligent search box,” the biggest change to Search in over 25 years.
- Support for longer, more conversational queries.
- An AI‑powered query‑suggestion system that goes beyond traditional autocomplete, helping users craft nuanced, context‑aware searches.