Google Brings Live Camera Input Into Search AI Mode.

Google has officially rolled out Search Live, a major enhancement to its AI Mode that lets users interact with Google Search using live camera input. This update allows users to point their Android device camera at objects and speak their questions, while the AI responds in real-time fusion of visual and voice interaction, designed to enrich search experiences.

What is Search Live, and how does it work?

Search Live builds on Project Astra’s live capabilities and integrates into Google’s AI Mode interface within the official Google app. Once enabled in Search Labs, users will see a new Live button in AI Mode at the top or bottom right. Tapping it opens a live camera viewfinder. In this mode, users can ask questions about what the camera sees, such as food ingredients, plants, and street signs, and receive detailed, contextual responses alongside relevant links, videos, and summaries.

The interface also adapts visually when active. Google’s signature colored arc dips down during AI responses, and integrated options let users mute the microphone or view transcripts without interrupting the conversation.

Search Live echoes the capabilities of Gemini Live, which previously supported voice and screen sharing. The new feature takes that experience directly into Search, weaving together Lens and generative AI to create a seamless multimodal tool.

Search Live Feature is Useful.

Search Live represents a new level of interactivity in everyday search behavior. Instead of typing or tapping into apps, users can now ask questions about their environment and receive AI responses based on what they see. This opens possibilities for real-time assistance—such as meal prep help, plant care tips, translation of signage, or even product lookups in stores.

Because the feature works within Search’s AI Mode, it benefits from Google’s query fan‑out system. That means it can cross-reference multiple data sources and generate concise answers with links to sources—all while keeping the interaction in a conversational format. 

Availablity of Search Live Feature.

Search Live is currently rolling out to users enrolled in Search Labs in the U.S. Users on recent Google app versions specifically 16.28 (stable) or 16.29 (beta) on Android have already reported seeing the Live icon and viewfinder during AI Mode sessions. The search bar or AI Mode interface adapts on the fly to include the Live camera option.

Google may expand the feature globally over time. Because it is managed server-side, users may need to wait a few days or restart the app to see the option, even if they meet the version requirements.