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Google has announced a new AI-driven feature called ‘Ask YouTube’ at its Google I/O 2026 developer conference. The tech giant has made it known that the organization is moving towards more conversational search on its platforms.
The new feature will make it possible for people to search their YouTube videos through conversations, where they can ask specific questions rather than input keywords. They would be able to keep refining their results by posing further questions.
During the event, Google demonstrated how the tool can handle complex searches that go beyond standard keywords. For instance, users can ask for beginner cycling tutorials for children, bedtime-friendly gaming recommendations, or specific creator reviews.
The AI system scans YouTube’s video library, including Shorts and long-form content, before presenting curated recommendations and summaries.
Google said the feature is powered by its Gemini AI models, which are now being integrated deeper into the company’s products and services.
The company confirmed that AskYouTube has started rolling out via YouTube Labs for YouTube Premium subscribers in the United States who are 18 or older. There are no plans at present regarding when the product will be rolled out internationally on a larger scale, though this is anticipated within a few months.
The roll-out is taking place amid stiff competition among various technology companies trying to incorporate AI-based applications into their products.
Alongside Ask YouTube, Google also introduced new AI features for creators using YouTube Shorts and the YouTube Create app. The company said creators will soon be able to edit or remix Shorts using text prompts and images, thanks to Gemini Omni integration. The tools are designed to simplify editing workflows and generate content variations faster.
Also Read: Google Launches Android XR Smart Glasses with Gemini AI Support
The most important topic covered in the Google I/O 2026 announcements is that of artificial intelligence. The following innovations have been mentioned, among others: Google search upgrades, the development of the Gemini AI model, artificial intelligence-enabled Workspace agents, and improvements in voice capabilities.
Sundar Pichai, Google's chief executive officer, emphasized that the company is now entering the era of artificial intelligence computing for delivering a consumer-friendly experience.
