Google Renames Bard and Duet AI to Gemini, Introduces Dedicated Android App
Google has recently announced that it is rebranding its AI services Bard and Duet as Gemini, after its multimodal AI model. This move comes as part of Google’s efforts to unify its generative AI branding, following in the footsteps of Microsoft’s renaming of Bing Chat to Copilot. Alongside the name change, Google has also introduced a dedicated Gemini Android app and a paid version of the chatbot with enhanced capabilities.
Gemini, formerly known as Bard, has been a popular way for users to directly experience Google’s most advanced AI models. According to Google CEO Sundar Pichai, the name change is meant to reflect the advanced technology at the core of the service. Gemini is now available in 40 languages on the web and will soon be accessible through a new Gemini app on Android and the Google app on iOS.
One of the standout features of the Gemini Android app is its ability to replace Google Assistant as the default assistant on a device. Users can now opt to have Gemini respond when they long press the home button or say “Hey Google.” This switch enables a new conversational overlay on the display, offering contextual suggestions such as generating descriptions for photos or providing more information about articles on the screen.
Additionally, the Gemini app provides access to commonly used Assistant features, including making calls, setting timers, and controlling smart home devices. Google has also promised to bring more Assistant functions to Gemini in the future, suggesting a potential phase-out of Assistant in favor of Gemini.
While there won’t be a separate Gemini app for iOS users, they can still access Gemini through the Google app by tapping the Gemini toggle. Initially available in English in the US, Gemini will expand its availability to more locales in English, Japanese, and Korean next week. Google plans to introduce Gemini to more countries and languages in the future.
In a significant development, Google is granting access to its largest and most capable AI model, Ultra 1.0, through Gemini Advanced. This AI model is designed for longer and more in-depth conversations, with the ability to recall context from previous chats. Google claims that Gemini Advanced excels in highly complex tasks such as coding, logical reasoning, following nuanced instructions, and collaborating on creative projects.
Gemini Advanced is currently available in English in 150 countries and territories. To access it, users must sign up for the new Google One AI Premium Plan, which costs $20 per month after a two-month free trial. Subscribers to this plan will also enjoy the benefits of the Google One Premium Plan, including 2TB of storage and a VPN. In the near future, Gemini will be integrated into apps like Gmail, Docs, Slides, and Sheets, replacing the previous Duet AI.
Google has emphasized its commitment to addressing concerns such as bias and unsafe content in the development of Gemini Advanced and other AI products. The company conducted extensive trust and safety checks, including external red-teaming by ethical hackers, to ensure the reliability and security of Gemini Advanced. The model was refined using reinforcement learning and fine tuning.
With the introduction of Gemini and Gemini Advanced, Google is taking a significant step forward in its AI capabilities. Users can now experience more advanced conversational AI and benefit from enhanced features across various applications. As Google continues to expand Gemini’s availability and functionality, it will be interesting to see how this AI model shapes the future of user interactions and productivity.
