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Google Tests New Tab Menu Design

Google is testing a new header design in AI Mode, hiding most tabs behind a dropdown. This change may encourage users to stay in AI Mode.

Original reporting · searchenginewatch.com

Original: “Google tests new tab menu design in AI Mode”

Read “Google tests new tab menu design in AI Mode” at Search Engine Watch →
Google tests new tab menu design in AI Mode
Image: Search Engine Watch

How this was written. Content Catalyst wrote this article with a language model from Search Engine Watch’s reporting (model: @cf/meta/llama-3.3-70b-instruct-fp8-fast); it describes that reporting rather than adding to it. The original, linked above, is the full story.

Key points from Search Engine Watch’s report

  • Google is testing a new tab menu design in AI Mode that hides most tabs behind a dropdown.
  • The new design may be intended to encourage users to stay in AI Mode rather than switching to other tabs.
  • The change is part of Google's ongoing efforts to refine its search engine and promote AI Mode.
  • The impact of the new design on user behavior is not yet clear, but it may influence search habits.
  • Google is continually experimenting with new features and designs to improve the user experience.

Google is testing a new tab menu design in AI Mode, according to Search Engine Watch. The new design shows only the AI Mode and All tabs initially, with the remaining tabs appearing when the All tab is clicked. This is a change from the previous design, which displayed all tabs in one line across the header. The new design may affect how users interact with the search engine.

The previous design had all tabs, such as Shopping and Videos, visible at all times. In contrast, the new design requires an extra click to access these tabs. Search Engine Watch reported that this change may be intended to keep users in AI Mode. By hiding the other tabs, Google may be encouraging users to stay in AI Mode rather than switching to other tabs.

The new design has been compared to the old design, with screenshots of both available. The change is likely intended to influence user behavior, although the exact reasoning behind the design decision is not clear. Google's goals for the new design are not explicitly stated, but it may be related to the company's efforts to promote AI Mode.

The testing of the new tab menu design is part of Google's ongoing efforts to refine its search engine. The company is continually experimenting with new features and designs, according to Search Engine Watch. These changes can provide insight into Google's priorities and goals for its search engine. By testing new designs, Google can gather data on user behavior and preferences.

The impact of the new design on user behavior is not yet clear. However, it is likely that the change will affect how users interact with the search engine. Search Engine Watch noted that the new design may make it more difficult for users to switch between tabs, which could influence their search habits. As Google continues to test and refine the new design, it will be important to monitor its effects on user behavior.

Google's testing of the new tab menu design is part of a larger trend of innovation in search engine design. The company is continually seeking to improve the user experience and provide more relevant search results. According to Search Engine Watch, Google has also recently updated its Search sharing guide to include existing AI and snippet controls. This update reflects the company's ongoing efforts to integrate AI into its search engine.

The testing of the new design is ongoing, and it is not yet clear when or if it will be implemented permanently. Search Engine Watch will likely continue to provide updates on the new design as more information becomes available. In the meantime, users can expect to see ongoing changes and refinements to Google's search engine as the company continues to experiment with new features and designs.

Questions and answers

What is the new tab menu design in AI Mode?

The new design shows only the AI Mode and All tabs initially, with the remaining tabs appearing when the All tab is clicked.

Why is Google testing the new tab menu design?

The exact reasoning behind the design decision is not clear, but it may be intended to keep users in AI Mode.

Is the new design available to all users?

The new design is currently being tested, and it is not yet clear when or if it will be implemented permanently.

Read the full story at Search Engine Watch More from Friday, October 23, 2026’s edition