Google Search AI Mode May Replace 'I'm Feeling Lucky' Button
Google's nostalgic "I'm feeling lucky" button, a staple of its search interface since the early days of the internet, might soon be replaced by an AI mode feature. Reports indicate that some users are already seeing this change, with the playful button swapped for a more functional AI-driven chatbot interface. This shift aligns with Google's broader push to integrate AI across its products, including Search.
The Evolution of Google Search
The "I'm feeling lucky" button was originally designed to bypass search results and take users directly to the top-ranked website for their query-a useful feature when internet speeds were slower. Today, it serves more as a nostalgic callback than a practical tool. In contrast, the new AI mode offers a conversational experience, providing summarized answers and follow-up questions powered by Google's Gemini 2.5 Pro model.
Google confirmed earlier this month that AI mode would roll out to a small percentage of U.S. users, though the exact placement of the feature wasn't specified. Some testers have reported seeing it where the "I'm feeling lucky" button once resided, suggesting a phased transition.
AI Mode vs. Traditional Search
While both features aim to streamline search, AI mode represents a fundamental shift from linking to external sites to generating direct answers. This change reflects Google's increasing reliance on AI to enhance user experience-though not without controversy. Some users remain skeptical of AI-generated responses, given past inaccuracies in Google's AI outputs.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- **Faster answers** – AI mode provides instant summaries instead of requiring users to click through search results.
- **Conversational interaction** – Users can refine queries in real-time, making searches more dynamic.
Cons
- **Potential inaccuracies** – AI-generated answers may lack the reliability of traditional search results.
- **Loss of nostalgia** – Removing the "I'm feeling lucky" button erases a piece of Google's history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the "I'm feeling lucky" button completely disappearing?
Not necessarily. Some users still see the button inside the search bar, suggesting Google may retain it in a less prominent location.
How does AI mode differ from traditional search?
AI mode provides direct answers via a chatbot interface, while traditional search lists website links. The AI can also engage in follow-up questions.
When will AI mode be widely available?
Google has only confirmed a limited U.S. rollout "in the coming weeks," with no timeline for a global release.