Google's 'I'm feeling lucky' button might soon be replaced by AI mode
Even the whims of chance can't dodge the advance of artificial intelligence. Since its early days, Google Search has featured an "I'm feeling lucky" button next to the usual search button. This quirky feature used to whisk users directly to the top search result, saving time in the era of sluggish internet connections. Nowadays, it's more of a nostalgic gimmick.
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Recently, users have noticed the "I'm feeling lucky" button vanishing from Google's search interface. In its stead, a new "AI mode" button has appeared. Instead of jumping to search results, this new button launches a chatbot that provides information on your query and allows for further conversation. Given AI's track record, some might humorously suggest renaming it to "I'm feeling unlucky."
At least one editor at ZDNET has confirmed seeing AI Mode take over the spot previously occupied by the "I'm feeling lucky" button, as illustrated in the screenshot above.
This change isn't unexpected
Just a few weeks ago, Google announced plans to broaden the reach of AI mode due to its popularity. The company stated, "In the coming weeks, a small percentage of people in the US will see the AI Mode tab in Search." Although Google didn't specify where this button would appear, user feedback indicates it's replacing the lucky button for some.
Also: How Google's AI combats new scam tactics - and how you can stay one step ahead
F fortunately, the "I'm feeling lucky" button isn't completely extinct. Users have spotted it in other spots, like within the search bar itself.
Though both buttons aim to bypass traditional search results, it's doubtful many still rely on the lucky button. Yet, its presence is comforting. While there's resistance to Google's push to integrate AI into its products, it's likely that AI mode will attract more users.
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Even the whims of chance can't dodge the advance of artificial intelligence. Since its early days, Google Search has featured an "I'm feeling lucky" button next to the usual search button. This quirky feature used to whisk users directly to the top search result, saving time in the era of sluggish internet connections. Nowadays, it's more of a nostalgic gimmick.
Also: Google's Gemini 2.5 Pro update makes the AI model even better at coding
Recently, users have noticed the "I'm feeling lucky" button vanishing from Google's search interface. In its stead, a new "AI mode" button has appeared. Instead of jumping to search results, this new button launches a chatbot that provides information on your query and allows for further conversation. Given AI's track record, some might humorously suggest renaming it to "I'm feeling unlucky."
At least one editor at ZDNET has confirmed seeing AI Mode take over the spot previously occupied by the "I'm feeling lucky" button, as illustrated in the screenshot above.
This change isn't unexpected
Just a few weeks ago, Google announced plans to broaden the reach of AI mode due to its popularity. The company stated, "In the coming weeks, a small percentage of people in the US will see the AI Mode tab in Search." Although Google didn't specify where this button would appear, user feedback indicates it's replacing the lucky button for some.
Also: How Google's AI combats new scam tactics - and how you can stay one step ahead
F fortunately, the "I'm feeling lucky" button isn't completely extinct. Users have spotted it in other spots, like within the search bar itself.
Though both buttons aim to bypass traditional search results, it's doubtful many still rely on the lucky button. Yet, its presence is comforting. While there's resistance to Google's push to integrate AI into its products, it's likely that AI mode will attract more users.
Get the morning's top stories in your inbox each day with our Tech Today newsletter.
Final Opportunity to Elevate Your Brand with a TechCrunch Sessions: AI Side Event
Today is your last chance to showcase your brand at the heart of AI discussions during TechCrunch Sessions: AI Week, with applications to host a Side Event closing tonight at 11:59 p.m. PT.From June 1
Join TechCrunch Sessions: AI with a Guest and Save 50% on Their Ticket by May 4
Curious about AI’s future? Bring a friend and dive in together!Until May 4, grab your Early Bird ticket to TechCrunch Sessions: AI, save up to $210, and get 50% off a second ticket for your colleague,
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