Google has expanded access to Canvas within its AI-powered search experience, making the feature available to all users in the United States in English.
The rollout brings advanced project planning and creative tools from Gemini directly into Google Search through its AI Mode.
The new Canvas in AI Mode was initially introduced as part of Google Labs experiments last year.
With the latest update, Google is making the feature widely available to all U.S. users who access AI Mode in Google Search.
According to a company blog post, the tool is designed to help users organize ideas, plan projects and conduct deeper research directly within the search experience.
Draft documents and build custom tools
One of Canvas’ key capabilities is helping users create content and tools inside search results.
Users can draft documents, develop project outlines, or even build custom digital tools without leaving the search interface.
Previously, Google suggested using Canvas for tasks such as building study guides by uploading class notes and other research materials.
The feature can also transform a research report into different formats, including a web page, quiz, or audio overview.
These functions overlap in some ways with NotebookLM, another research-focused AI tool from Google.
Canvas also allows users to turn ideas into interactive projects.
By simply describing a concept, users can watch as Gemini generates code to create a shareable app or game.
The tool can also assist with refining creative writing drafts and providing feedback on ongoing projects.
Integration with Gemini AI
Canvas already exists within Gemini, where subscribers to Google AI Pro and Google AI Ultra have access to advanced capabilities.
These paid tiers provide access to the latest AI model, Gemini 3, along with a large one-million-token context window designed for handling complex projects.
The broader rollout through AI Mode now introduces Canvas to users who may not have previously used Gemini’s AI features.
How Canvas works in AI mode
To use Canvas, users must first open AI Mode within Google Search.
They can then select the Canvas option from the tools menu (+) and describe what they want to create.
A side panel opens where users can collect information from the web and Google’s Knowledge Graph while building their project.
For prototype apps or tools, users can test features, view the underlying code, and refine functionality by interacting with Gemini through chat.
The launch places Google in direct competition with similar AI productivity tools developed by OpenAI and Anthropic.
Platforms such as ChatGPT and Claude offer comparable capabilities for writing assistance and turning ideas into projects.
However, ChatGPT’s Canvas feature typically activates automatically based on user queries, while tools from Google and Anthropic require more direct interaction.
