Google announced that it is rebranding its artificial intelligence assistant Bard to a new name. The AI is now called Gemini, the same name as the collection of AI models that power it. Not only that, Google also launched a new app for mobile and introduced a new paid subscription package for those looking for advanced AI features.
The rebrand is part of the company’s commitment into AI, as outlined by its CEO Sundar Pichai during a recent earnings call in January. He said that Google wants to eventually offer an AI agent that can complete more and more tasks on a user’s behalf, including within Google Search. He did admit that there’s “a lot of execution ahead.”
Gemini on Android and iOS
To access Gemini, users can now download a dedicated app on Android or use the Google app on iOS. Google says this is a new mobile experience that offers an easier way to access Gemini on mobile, an “important first step in building a true AI assistant — one that is conversational, multimodal and helpful.”
On Android, the users can opt to tie in the app with Google Assistant, so whenever users access Google Assistant, Gemini is there to help them as well. There will be a new overlay experience that offers easy access to Gemini as well as contextual help right on the screen. The company said many of the features already on Google Assistant – setting timers, making calls and controlling your smart home devices – are available through the Gemini app, and they are working to add more in the future.
On iOS meanwhile, users will be able to access Gemini directly via the Google App within the coming weeks. There will be a dedicated Gemini toggle in the app that users can tap to use the AI chatbot.
Google said that the US is the first market to get full access to Gemini and will be rolling out to other languages and markets soon.
Gemini Advanced experience, for a fee
For those looking to access something a bit more advanced, Google is introducing Gemini Advanced. Formerly known as Bard Advanced, this AI model uses the newest Ultra 1.0 large language model.
With the new Ultra model, Google said Gemini Advance is more capable in tasks such as coding, logical reasoning, following nuanced instructions and collaborating on creative projects. It also can understand context better following previous prompts to deliver better results.
Additionally, Google said Gemini Advance can help with additional tasks, such as:
- becoming a personal tutor by creating step-by-step instructions, sample quizzes or back-and-forth discussions tailored to the user’s learning style.
- help with more advanced coding scenarios by serving as a sounding board for ideas and helping you evaluate different coding approaches.
- help digital creators go from idea to creation by generating fresh content, analysing recent trends and brainstorming improved ways to grow their audiences.
To access Gemini Advance, customers can opt to subscribe to a new AI subscription option. It will cost RM97.99 a month through Google One with a two-month free trial. In addition, AI Premium subscribers will soon be able to use Gemini in Gmail, Docs, Slides, Sheets and more (formerly known as Duet AI).
