Google Tests ‘Ask a Follow-Up’ Feature to Advance Conversational Search

Google is testing a new “Ask a follow-up” feature that allows users to continue search queries more naturally and conversationally. 

Spotted by tech observer Sachin Patel and shared via X, this feature appears in live search results and includes a Gemini icon, signaling AI integration. 

When clicked, it generates a new search thread based on the previous query, streamlining how users interact with information.

What the Feature Does

The “Ask a follow-up” prompt appears beneath standard results or AI Overviews. Rather than initiating a new search, users can refine or extend their original question with a single click.

This functionality mirrors how users interact with AI chatbots, creating context across questions rather than resetting with each query. 

Google is positioning this as part of its effort to make search more fluid, predictive, and useful across longer sessions.

Google is testing ask a follow-up in the SERP. When I click on one, it redirects to a new query in the search bar.@rustybrick@gaganghotra_ @brodieseo pic.twitter.com/oJhzbK2mSU

— Sachin Patel (@SachuPatel53124) April 11, 2025

A Strategic Move Amid AI Competition

This development comes as Google faces growing pressure from OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s AI-enhanced Bing. 

Unlike those platforms, which center on direct conversation, Google’s feature integrates conversational behavior within its core search engine—without abandoning its traditional interface.

Gemini branding suggests the feature is backed by Google’s AI models, offering contextually relevant suggestions that feel more like recommendations than static results. It’s a direct play to keep users engaged and returning.

What It Means for Users and the Web

The great news for everyday users is that it leads to faster and smarter searches! Rather than having to rephrase the same question over and over again, users can pick up right where they left off, enjoying more precise answers that truly meet their needs.

This signals a shift in how content may be surfaced for SEO professionals and content creators.

Follow-up queries could prioritize different sources, especially those optimized for context-rich, connected information. 

This may impact visibility for single-page answers in favor of sites offering broader, deeper content pathways.

Still in Testing, But With Big Potential

Google hasn’t officially announced the feature or revealed how widely it’s being tested. But its placement in live search results indicates a serious trial. 

Whether or not it rolls out globally, this test reveals the company’s direction: blending search with conversation to better match user behavior.

If adopted widely, this feature could fundamentally change how people interact with Google Search, reducing effort, increasing engagement, and favoring more intelligent, continuous queries.

How to Respond Now

Here’s how users and digital professionals can prepare for this shift: 

Search smarter: Use natural language and allow the tool to guide refinements.

Look for Gemini cues: These indicate AI-driven suggestions or summaries.

For marketers and SEOs: Prepare for a search landscape built on follow-up context and evolving user intent.

Monitor visibility: Track how your content performs in dynamic query chains.

Key Takeaways

• Google is testing an “Ask a follow-up” prompt within search results.
• The feature enables contextual, conversational-style queries.
• It is marked with Gemini stars, indicating AI assistance.