> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://alhena.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://alhena.gitbook.io/docs/features/conversational-search.md).

# Conversational Search

Conversational Search provides a dedicated, immersive search interface where customers can have natural conversations with your AI assistant. Unlike the chat widget that floats in a corner, Conversational Search takes over the full page to deliver a rich, focused experience with starter questions, product recommendations, and conversational follow-ups.

## Key Features

* **Full-page conversational interface** — A dedicated search experience that opens as an overlay, giving customers room to explore.
* **AI-generated starter questions** — Automatically generated questions based on your catalog to help customers get started.
* **Customizable appearance** — Match colors, text, and branding to your website's look and feel.
* **AI Mode chat widget** — A companion chat widget that appears alongside search results for follow-up conversations.
* **Programmatic control** — Open, close, or toggle Conversational Search from any button or event using the JavaScript SDK.

## How It Works

Conversational Search has two main parts:

1. **Start Page** — The landing page customers see when Conversational Search opens. It includes a heading, a message input, and AI-generated starter questions to guide users.
2. **AI Mode Widget** — A conversational chat widget that appears when the customer starts a conversation, showing messages, product recommendations, and follow-ups.

<figure><img src="/files/gaG9CzAHZRMRvzmn6CeW" alt=""><figcaption><p>Conversational Search start page with heading, input field, and starter questions</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/QUunVCLBDoHISQMgQVKB" alt=""><figcaption><p>AI Mode chat widget with product results and conversation</p></figcaption></figure>

## Getting Started

1. **Enable Conversational Search** — Go to **Integrations** in the Alhena dashboard and find **Conversational Search**. Toggle it on to enable.
2. **Install on your website** — Follow the [Installation](/docs/features/conversational-search/installation.md) guide to add Conversational Search to your site.
3. **Customize the experience** — Use the [Customization](/docs/features/conversational-search/customization.md) settings to match your brand.

## Related

* [Installation](/docs/features/conversational-search/installation.md) — Step-by-step guide to add Conversational Search to your website
* [Customization](/docs/features/conversational-search/customization.md) — Configure the appearance and behavior of Conversational Search
* [Chat Widget](/docs/features/chat-widget.md) — The Alhena chat widget