Google has expanded AI Mode in Search beyond conversational answers by introducing Connected Apps, a feature that links third-party services directly within the interface to complete tasks through natural-language requests. Rather than returning informational results alone, AI Mode can now execute action-oriented responses, such as building shopping carts, generating design templates, or curating playlists, reducing the steps between search intent and task completion within a single interface.
The rollout is currently limited to the United States and supports English only during the initial phase. Connected Apps are accessible through AI Mode on both web and mobile, available via the AI Mode entry point or its dedicated URL. Availability for specific services may vary depending on device, location, and age requirements tied to individual apps. Google has indicated plans to expand the number of supported apps over time through continued partner collaboration.
At launch, the feature supports three partner services: Instacart, Canva, and YouTube Music. With Instacart connected, AI Mode can generate grocery carts based on natural-language prompts, such as requesting healthy snacks and drinks for multiple adults, and add those items directly to a user’s Instacart cart. The Canva integration allows AI Mode to surface design template options in response to requests for creative assets like flyers. YouTube Music support enables AI Mode to curate playlists from search prompts and save them directly to a user’s account. Each integration allows a single search session to invoke shopping, design, or audio tools without requiring manual tab switching.
Using Connected Apps requires being signed in to a Google Account. Most third-party services also require a separate account with the provider, which must be linked to the Google Account before AI Mode can act on that service. When a user submits a request involving an unconnected app, AI Mode surfaces an option to link the account within the interface. Linked app management is handled through Google Account settings, including dedicated Linked Apps or Connections pages.
Once a connection is established, AI Mode can act on behalf of the user inside the third-party service, though final steps such as checkout are typically completed within the app or its website.
The Connected Apps feature builds on earlier capabilities within the Gemini app, which already allowed users to link third-party services to accelerate tasks. Google is extending that functionality into Search through AI Mode, positioning it as a task-oriented hub rather than a purely informational tool. By enabling direct integrations with services like Instacart, Canva, and YouTube Music at the point of search, Google is attempting to compress the distance between a user’s stated intent and the completion of real-world tasks, all without leaving the Search interface. The feature began rolling out on July 16, 2026, marking the start of an expansion Google expects to grow through ongoing partnerships with additional app providers.
