How to Use Google's New AI Agents to Go Beyond Your Standard Searches

At Google I/O 2026, Google unveiled new AI-powered "information agents" that continuously monitor topics and proactively alert users to updates and changes. This represents a major shift from reactive search to proactive, autonomous AI assistance.

What Are Information Agents?

Unlike traditional search tools that only respond when prompted, Google's information agents:

Operate continuously in the background (24/7) without requiring repeated manual searches
Synthesize information from multiple sources instead of just providing links
Explain why information matters, compare perspectives, and provide actionable insights
Represent the next evolution of Google Alerts (launched in 2003), but with far greater capabilities

Key Use Cases

Financial Monitoring

Track specific companies, share prices, or economic trends
Monitor market activity throughout the day
Summarize earnings reports
Alert users to major market changes

Everyday Tasks

Track flight prices for upcoming trips
Monitor sports teams and live events
Follow breaking news
Track housing or job market trends
Monitor weather and traffic conditions

How to Use Information Agents

Open AI Mode in Google Search
Enter a prompt, such as: "Keep me updated on nearby movie tickets for 'The Mandalorian and Grogu'"
Receive push notifications when relevant information appears
Manage your agents in AI Mode history, where you can refine or disable alerts

Availability

Launch: Summer 2026
Initial rollout: Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the U.S.
Expansion: Additional markets later

Part of a Larger Search Redesign

Information agents are part of Google's biggest change to Search in over 25 years, including:

A reimagined "intelligent search box" supporting longer, conversational queries
AI-powered query suggestions that go beyond traditional autocomplete
Context-aware search capabilities

The Bigger Picture

This announcement reflects Google's larger push toward agentic AI systems that can take initiative and assist with ongoing tasks, rather than simply answering one-off questions. The agents are designed to help users stay informed about their interests without requiring constant manual intervention.