Google has expanded access to Canvas in AI Mode, a feature powered by Gemini, making it available to all users in the United States using English.
Originally introduced through Google Labs experiments last year, the tool is designed to help users organize projects, conduct research, and create digital content directly within Google Search.
What Gemini Canvas Can Do
Canvas functions as an interactive workspace that allows users to brainstorm ideas, draft documents, and build digital tools without leaving search.
Some of its main capabilities include:
- Drafting and editing documents
- Creating custom apps or simple games
- Organizing research projects
- Generating quizzes or study materials
- Converting reports into web pages or audio summaries
Users can simply describe their idea, and the system generates code or content to turn it into a shareable project.
Turning Ideas Into Apps and Tools
One of Canvas’ most advanced features is the ability to automatically generate code.
By entering a concept, users can watch as Gemini creates a prototype app or interactive tool. They can then:
- Test how it works
- View and edit the generated code
- Refine the project through conversation with the AI
This approach aims to make app development and experimentation more accessible, even for users with limited coding experience.
Integration With Google’s AI Ecosystem
Canvas is already available inside Gemini for subscribers to Google’s premium AI services, including:
- Google AI Pro
- Google AI Ultra
These plans offer access to advanced models like Gemini 3 and larger context windows—up to 1 million tokens—allowing users to work with large documents and complex projects.
The expansion to Google Search means that millions more people can now try Canvas directly from AI Mode without needing a dedicated Gemini subscription.
How to Use Canvas in AI Mode
To start using Canvas, users must first enable AI Mode in Google Search. From there:
- Open the tool menu (+).
- Select the Canvas option.
- Describe what you want to create.
A side panel then opens where users can gather information from the web and Google’s Knowledge Graph to build their project.
Competing With Other AI Workspaces
Canvas enters a growing market of AI-powered creative workspaces.
Tools from competitors such as OpenAI and Anthropic offer similar functionality. For example, ChatGPT includes its own Canvas feature that can automatically appear based on user queries, while Anthropic’s AI assistant Claude AI provides project-building and writing assistance.
Despite the competition, Google’s biggest advantage may be its massive search ecosystem, which gives the company the ability to introduce AI tools to billions of users worldwide.
Expanding the Role of AI in Search
The rollout of Gemini Canvas represents another step in Google’s plan to transform traditional search into a more interactive and productive AI platform.
Instead of simply displaying results, Google Search is increasingly becoming a workspace where users can research, create, and build projects in real time with the help of AI.
