Following the Pixel Launcher shortcut, you can now add AI Mode to the Google Search homescreen widget on any Android device.
Like with a regular search, this lets you immediately enter a prompt into the fullscreen AI Mode screen. Widget access first appeared in April for some users of the Google app beta. It’s gone through a few cycles of being available and then randomly disappearing.
Over the past few days, we’re seeing the AI Mode widget shortcut widely rolled out for both beta and stable users on Google app 16.28. It appears in its own circle to the right of the voice microphone and Google Lens in the latest widget redesign.
To set, long-press the widget on your homescreen for settings/edit to get to a Customize screen with Theme and Transparency options. This is also available from the Google app Settings list.
Tap Shortcuts, with “AI Mode” being the second option in the grid after “None.” If you use AI Mode on a non-Pixel device, the “Google” widget is the fastest way to launch AI Mode from your homescreen.
Meanwhile, if you’re not part of the “AI Mode” Search Lab, the top portion of the Google app is still using the old design. The AI Mode shortcut is a pill in the colorful carousel underneath the Search bar instead of being part of it.
You might want to consider enrolling for the sleeker design that’s available as you scroll the Discover feed and to test Search Live.
New vs. old
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