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Google begins rolling out AI-focused homepage, ditches search button to make room for tools like image generation

Google has begun rolling out an AI-focused homepage for signed-out users, replacing the traditional search button with shortcuts to tools like image generation, AI Mode, and Brainstorm, according to Search Engine Watch. The new layout allows non-account holders to access most AI features without signing in, though image creation still requires a Google Account. Google has not officially commented on the rollout's scope.

read2 min views1 publishedAug 10, 2026
Google begins rolling out AI-focused homepage, ditches search button to make room for tools like image generation
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It seems the Google homepage will soon be getting a makeover, as a new layout has been rolled out for some users. Interestingly, the change seems to affect those not signed into a Google Account. It features shortcuts to a few of Google’s AI tools – such as image generation (powered by Nano Banana 2) – so it may serve to entice more people into creating an account.

The changed layout means the long-standing ‘Google Search’ button is no longer present. You may, at least, be happy to learn that the “I’m Feeling Lucky” button remains in place, though I personally can’t remember the last time I used it. Come to think of it, the same goes for the search button (as opposed to just hitting enter, or clicking on one of the suggested results).

More AI features for those without a Google Account #

We were unable to view the changes, both signed in and out, but Search Engine Watch managed to capture some screenshots of the new ‘AI-first’ homepage. According to the publication, the shortcuts are not just there as advertising, as non-signed-in users can access most of them freely without a Google Account, opening up wider access to Google’s Gemini AI capabilities.

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AI Mode is also available to all users, but that’s nothing new; it sits alongside the existing ‘Search by voice’ and ‘Search by image’ options. The ‘Upload files or images’ (+) icon also remains present. Below are all options central to the new Google homepage for signed-out users, outside of the search bar itself.

  • Upload files or images
  • Search by voice
  • Search by image
  • AI Mode
  • Create images
  • Ask about files
  • Brainstorm
  • I’m Feeling Lucky

Search Engine Watch says AI Mode, Ask about files, and Brainstorm all worked without signing in, but Create images required a Google Account. The new ‘Ask about files’ option seems identical to the existing ‘Upload files or images’ option, allowing users to attach a file before asking questions about it to an AI chatbot, powered by Gemini.

There’s no official word from Google on how this rollout will work. It may be a small test, a server-side rollout, or limited to certain accounts, sessions, or regions for the time being. Either way, it gives those without a Google Account more freedom to use Google’s AI tools, and perhaps convince them to finally sign up.

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