Summary

  • Google's AI search matured from early gaffes and is now central to the Google experience.
  • Google's Windows app is now available worldwide in English, expanding access beyond the US.
  • The app lets you use AI mode outside a browser and search the web, files, apps, and Drive via Alt+Space.

Google's AI search has come a long way since its release. It had a rough start, including the pizza-based error that went viral after AI Overviews recommended using glue to keep the cheese on.

Now, AI has become a key part of the Google experience, both the AI Overviews and 'AI mode' that skips the search entirely and lets you tap into Google's powerful LLMs. And with Google's app, which is now releasing worldwide in English, you don't even need to use your browser.

The Google app on Windows is now available worldwide

It's only in English, though

Over on Google's The Keyword blog, the tech giant has announced the general English release of the Google app. It was originally just for US users, but now it's available in English worldwide.

The Google app lets you use AI mode without even opening your browser. Granted, Google Chrome does make it really easy to use AI mode right away, but it's nice to have it if you don't or can't use Chrome.

The Google app is more than just a glorified AI tool, though:

Access everything from the Search box: With a simple keyboard shortcut (Alt + Space) you can instantly find what you need on your desktop—including information from the web, your computer files, installed apps, and Google Drive files.

Using the Google app also lets you use Lens on your desktop. If you've never given it a go before, you can use Lens to quickly upload a screenshot to Gemini for further analysis. I've been using Lens to translate things on the spot, so this sounds like a useful tool to have on hand.

If you want to give the app a go for yourself, it's available on the Google app download page.