Google expands Search Live globally (www.engadget.com)

Google has announced the global expansion of its Search Live feature, making it available in over 200 countries and territories. This tool, which allows users to point their smartphone camera at objects or scenes and ask real-time questions, was initially launched in the U.S. last September. The expansion aligns with Google’s AI Mode chatbot capabilities and enhances user interaction by providing immediate, context-aware information about their surroundings. Significantly, Search Live now operates on Google’s advanced Gemini 3.1 Flash model, which is designed to facilitate more natural conversations and ensure a faster, more reliable experience. This model's multilingual capabilities also mean that users across different languages can benefit from this interactive search function. Accessible via the Google app on both Android and iOS, as well as through Google Lens, the expansion of Search Live represents a substantial leap in integrating AI with everyday user experiences, highlighting the increasing importance of AI-driven tools in enhancing information accessibility.