Sylvia Duruson
Google has announced a rebranding of its conversational AI chatbot, previously known as Bard, to Gemini. The new name reflects the advanced large language model technology powering the AI assistant.
With this rebrand, Google is launching upgraded Gemini apps for iOS and Android, allowing hands-free voice access and text chatting. Users worldwide can now engage the chatbot directly through the Google Search app on mobile devices.
The standard Gemini relies on a lightweight version of Google’s proprietary Prospero language model. However, Google has developed more robust Gemini iterations adapted for specialized use cases.
“We are taking major steps to make AI more helpful for everyone,” said Sissie Hsiao, GM of Gemini Experiences. “Gemini supports an entire ecosystem from consumer products to platforms aiding developers and enterprises.”
Gemini represents Google’s initial foray into directly competing with other chatbots like Microsoft’s Bing and Anthropic’s Claude. However, the tech giant emphasized responsible testing and deployment over rushing to market.
“We are approaching innovation boldly yet advancing this technology cautiously,” noted Hsiao. By perfecting conversational tone, reasoning ability and multimodal features, Google wants Gemini to evolve into a versatile digital assistant.
Potential use cases span from generating images for party invitations to providing instructions for changing a flat tire based on a photo. Gemini can also leverage Google Assistant capabilities like smart home device control.
With the rebrand, Google introduced new subscription tiers that unlock improved versions of the AI. For $19.99 per month, Google One AI Premium Package buyers can access Gemini Advanced.
This premium model labeled “Ultra 1.0” doubles the storage allowance to 2TB and enables sophisticated reasoning for complex tasks like computer programming and creative collaboration. Google intends for Gemini Advanced to align with competitive offerings from rivals charging extra for enhanced chatbots.
Initially launching in English in the U.S. before expanding internationally, Gemini remains in preview stages as Google gathers user experiences to direct training. By releasing apps on popular mobile platforms, the company hopes to collect diverse feedback on Gemini’s strengths and weaknesses.
Google called the Gemini rollout the “first step” in building a multifunctional AI assistant for consumers and businesses.
The tech leader appears committed to gradually introducing and improving AI capabilities across its products like Search, Maps and office software. With data from billions of existing users, Google believes Gemini can eventually surpass competitors in accuracy, language breadth and utility.
