September 04, 2025, 04:57 PM EAT – Google has officially launched AI Mode in Search for users in Kenya, ushering in a new era of intelligent, intuitive search powered by advanced artificial intelligence. Announced today as part of a regional rollout that began on August 21, 2025, the feature is now available to Kenyan users via a dedicated tab on the Search results page and within the Google app for Android and iOS. This launch marks a significant step in enhancing how Kenyans access and explore information online.
A Smarter Search Experience
AI Mode, driven by a custom version of Google’s latest Gemini 2.5 model, transforms the search experience by enabling users to tackle complex, multi-part questions with more intuitive and comprehensive responses. Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Africa, highlighted the launch’s importance in a statement released at 10:00 AM EAT today, saying, “We’re excited to bring AI Mode to Kenya, where curiosity drives complex questions—from travel planning to learning new concepts. This reimagines Search for our users.” The feature uses advanced reasoning to break down queries into subtopics, conducting simultaneous searches to deliver hyper-relevant content.
A key highlight is its multimodal capabilities, allowing users to interact through text, voice, or images. Simply tapping the microphone icon or uploading a photo enables natural queries, such as identifying a plant or exploring local attractions. Okosi, via his official X account (@AlexOkosiGoogle) at 11:30 AM EAT, added, “AI Mode empowers Kenyans to explore deeper with links to the best of the web, enhancing content discovery.”
Rollout and Features
The rollout in Kenya follows successful launches in South Africa, Nigeria, and other regions, with the feature appearing as a tab in Search starting today. Google emphasizes that AI Mode integrates its core quality and ranking systems, ensuring reliable results with prominent web links. In cases where confidence in AI responses is low, the system defaults to traditional search results, maintaining accuracy. This adaptability has been praised for broadening the types of questions users can ask, from detailed research to casual explorations.
The launch aligns with Google’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s digital growth, building on initiatives like the $1 billion investment in African tech announced earlier this year. With Kenya’s internet penetration exceeding 40%, AI Mode is poised to serve a tech-savvy population eager for innovative tools. Early feedback from users in other regions suggests increased engagement with diverse websites, a trend Google expects to replicate in Kenya.
Local Impact and Future Plans
For Kenyan users, AI Mode offers a tool to navigate the country’s rich digital landscape, from tourism queries about the Maasai Mara to educational searches on local history. Tech enthusiasts and students are among the first to test the feature, with initial reactions shared on X indicating excitement about its potential. Google plans to expand AI Mode to additional languages and regions soon, with Okosi noting, “This is just the beginning of tailoring AI to Kenya’s unique needs.”
Motorists, businesses, and educators are encouraged to explore AI Mode to streamline tasks, from route planning to market research. For more details, visit www.google.co.ke. As Kenya embraces this technology, it positions itself as a leader in Africa’s AI-driven future.
