Google has now empowered its AI Mode in Search to go beyond providing answers—by actually handling tasks like finding restaurant reservations. Launched for U.S. users who are Google AI Ultra subscribers and have opted into the “Agentic capabilities in AI Mode” Labs experiment, the feature lets users specify party size, time, location, cuisine preference and more. AI Mode then scans platforms like OpenTable, Resy, Tock, Ticketmaster, StubHub, SeatGeek, and Booksy for real-time availability and provides direct booking links. Additionally, U.S. users who’ve opted into personalization can get recommendations tailored to their past searches and preferences, and they can share AI Mode conversation links with others. Google has simultaneously expanded these capabilities to over 180 English-speaking countries and territories, broadening access significantly.
Sources: The Verge, Google Blog, Search Engine Journal
Key Takeaways
– From passive answers to task execution: Google AI Mode now handles “legwork” by directly finding reservation availability and giving you one-click booking links—no more hunting through multiple sites.
– Personalization and collaboration: U.S. users opting into Labs benefit from personalized recommendations based on their past searches and can share the AI Mode session via a link that others can continue or edit.
– Global rollout in English: Beyond the U.S., the agentic reservation feature is now available in AI Mode across 180+ English-speaking countries and territories.
In-Depth
Google’s AI Mode in Search is stepping up from just giving answers to actually helping users get things done—and it’s a solid move toward smarter, more efficient search. If you’re a U.S.-based Google AI Ultra subscriber and opt into the Labs experiment for “Agentic capabilities in AI Mode,” you can now let AI sift through reservation platforms like OpenTable, Resy, and Tock with your specific preferences—whether that’s party size, time, location, or cuisine—and it hands you back real-time options with direct booking links. No more toggling through tabs or cross-checking availability.
What’s more, personalization is now part of the deal. If you opt in, AI Mode can learn from your past search history—maybe you lean toward Italian, quick lunches, or places with outdoor seating—and offer suggestions tailored just for you. Plus, you can share your AI Mode chat via a link, letting a friend pick up where you left off or tweak the plan together.
Importantly, these features aren’t just confined to the U.S. Google has rolled out this functionality to over 180 countries and territories where English is used—an impressive global expansion that widens its footprint.
From a practical standpoint, this isn’t fairy-tale-level futurism—it’s simply making search less of a chore and more of a helpful assistant. And that’s something everyone can appreciate—less friction, more action, and cleaner efficiency in how we plan our days.