After 25 years, Google's iconic Search button is disappearing for some users — and this is the replacement

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If you tried to Google something recently and felt as if things looked a little different, it's not just your imagination.Some users are seeing a redesigned Google homepage that removes the familiar Google Search button and replaces it with shortcuts for AI Mode, Create images, Ask about files and Brainstorm.It’s only a test for now, but it’s hard to ignore what Google is putting in the Search button’s place. I've been writing about AI replacing the internet as we know it for the past several months.For more than 25 years, Google’s homepage has barely changed. You type something into the search box, hit Google Search, and get a page of results. Now, Google appears to be experimenting with turning that same box into a chatbot window.Google Search is starting to look a lot more like ChatGPT or Gemini

(Image credit: Google)In the experimental layout, Google’s traditional search field is surrounded by tools that encourage you to do something other than type a keyword and look through links.There’s AI Mode, which lets you ask longer questions and continue the conversation with follow-ups, you can ask about files or even create an image with Nano Banana. Interestingly, I’m Feeling Lucky is still there, but the old Google Search button is not.Sure, you can still type a query, but the experience will be much different as Google is replacing classic search with AI Overviews and Summaries.Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.Google Search VP Robby Stein responded to people spotting the change and said the company isn't getting rid of traditional search."This is a small test on desktop to help people find new things they can do with Search. No impact to how the core search box works – just add your question and hit enter as usual," Stein said.So, no, the Google Search button has not officially been killed off, but all signs seem to point that direction. If anything, the test still tells us quite a bit about where Google wants Search to go.The end of Google Search as we know it