Google Search Gets an AI Makeover: 'AI Mode' Replaces the Classic 10 Blue Links

Google just killed the 10 blue links. The new 'AI Mode' — now the default search experience for all US users — replaces the familiar list of links with a Gemini-generated answer that synthesizes information from across the web. Links aren't gone, but they're now in a sidebar rather than front and center.

For research-heavy queries, it's genuinely impressive. Ask it to compare two products, and it gives you a detailed breakdown with pros, cons, pricing, and expert opinions — all cited. For quick navigational searches like 'Facebook login,' it feels slower than the old interface.

"Search is no longer just about finding information. It's about understanding it. This represents the most significant evolution in how people access knowledge since the invention of the web browser."

— Sundar Pichai, Google CEO

Google introduced new traffic-sharing payments to major publishers for content used in AI Mode answers, similar to deals struck in Europe and Australia, though rates remain confidential.