On Thursday, Google unveiled an update that lets users connect and interact with several popular apps directly within AI Mode, its conversational search feature. At launch, the supported apps include Instacart, Canva, and YouTube. This move transforms AI Mode from a simple question-answering tool into one that can also help complete tasks across everyday apps. By doing so, Google aims to encourage users to rely more heavily on AI Mode for activities like planning and shopping. Additionally, this rollout helps Google compete more effectively with rivals such as OpenAI's ChatGPT and Anthropic's Claude, both of which already offer app integrations.

For instance, if you're organizing a barbecue and using AI Mode to compile a grocery list, you can link your Instacart account to directly add items to your shopping cart and complete checkout quickly within the Instacart app or website.

Alternatively, when tackling a project that requires design inspiration, like creating a flyer, you can ask Canva to display a range of templates. In another scenario, you might use AI Mode to craft a playlist for an upcoming party and instantly save it to YouTube Music. This update is now available to users in the United States. Google has indicated it is collaborating with various partners and plans to expand support to more apps soon.

This announcement builds on a feature introduced at Google I/O earlier this year, which allowed users to link third-party apps to the Gemini app for faster task completion. Supported apps at that time included Canva, OpenTable, Spark, and Instacart, among others. Since its debut in early 2025, Google has steadily enhanced AI Mode with additional capabilities. Most recently, the company announced that AI Mode can now help verify whether an item is in stock at a nearby store. Google also added a feature enabling users to browse the web alongside AI Mode, allowing them to compare details and ask follow-up questions while retaining the context of their search. Earlier this year, "Personal Intelligence" was introduced to AI Mode, allowing it to tap into users' Gmail and Google Photos for more tailored responses.