Google announced Thursday that users can now link to and interact with some of their go-to apps in AI Mode, the company’s conversational search experience. Apps supported at launch include Instacart, Canva, and YouTube.
With this new update, Google is expanding its AI mode to go beyond just answering questions to completing tasks across the apps you use regularly. The tech giant may also want users to rely more on AI modes for things like planning and shopping. Additionally, this development will allow Google to better compete with rivals such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Anthropic’s Claude, both of which support app integration.
As an example, Google says if you’re planning a barbecue and using AI mode to create your grocery list, you can connect your Instacart account to add ingredients directly to your shopping cart and checkout right in the Instacart app or website.
Or, if you’re working on a project and need design ideas for something like a flyer, you can ask Canva to show you a selection of templates. As another example, Google says you can use AI mode to curate a playlist for your next party and instantly save it to YouTube Music.
The update is rolling out to users in the US, and Google says it’s working with various partners and will soon start supporting more apps.
Today’s announcement builds on features Google announced at Google I/O earlier this year, allowing users to connect third-party apps to the Gemini app to complete tasks faster. Supported apps include Canva, OpenTable, Spark, Instacart, and more.
Since its release in early 2025, Google has continuously built AI Mode with more features. Just recently, the tech giant announced that AI mode will now be able to check if the product you want is in stock at a store near you. Google also recently added the ability for users to explore the web alongside AI mode, comparing details and asking follow-up questions while maintaining the context of their searches.
Earlier this year, Google launched “Personal Intelligence” in AI mode, allowing users to leverage their Gmail and Google Photos to provide more personalized responses.
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