Google adds app links to AI Mode and selfie avatars to Vids

What happened

Google added links that let its AI Mode search be used inside other apps, and it let users of the Vids tool generate short video avatars by uploading a selfie.

Confirmed

Global impact / market context

Embedding AI Mode in third‑party apps can drive more traffic to Google’s search and keep users within its ecosystem, while selfie‑based video avatars make Vids more fun, encouraging creators to spend more time and potentially increasing ad revenue.

Analyst inference

These updates show Google is expanding AI features across its products, similar to earlier moves that added AI to Search and Workspace, indicating a strategy to keep users engaged on Google platforms rather than competitors.

Analyst inference

What to watch

1. Track how many third‑party apps adopt the AI Mode link, because higher adoption would show developers see value in Google’s AI and could boost search usage. Analyst inference
2. Watch the number of Vids videos created with selfie avatars; rising usage would suggest the feature attracts creators and may increase time spent on Google’s video services. Analyst inference
3. Observe any changes in Google’s ad pricing or inventory after the features launch, as more engaged users could lead to higher ad demand and affect revenue. Analyst inference

Evidence

• cryptopolitan.com