Google has announced the launch of its standalone Android app, Gemini, which replaces its predecessor Bard. In a move reminiscent of Microsoft’s Copilot, Google has combined its generative AI products Bard and Duet into one, creating Gemini. This new app will be available for download on the Play Store, providing users with access to a range of Assistant features. Additionally, there will be a paid version of the chatbot with enhanced features.
According to a blog post by Google CEO Sundar Pichai, Bard has been rebranded as Gemini to reflect the advanced technology it embodies. Gemini is currently available in 40 languages on the web and will be accessible through the new Android app as well as the Google app on iOS.
Gemini offers users the ability to perform various Assistant functions, including making calls and managing smart home devices through voice commands or manual input. Furthermore, Google has hinted at the integration of additional Assistant features into Gemini, suggesting the eventual replacement of Bard.
In a December blog post, Google revealed that the upcoming Google Pixel 8 Pro will operate on Gemini Nano, a specialized variant of the model designed to run locally on smaller devices.
In an effort to enhance Bard, Google made several significant updates in July. One of the key improvements is the integration of spoken word recognition, enabling Bard to communicate in 40 languages, including Arabic, Chinese, German, Hindi, and Spanish. Furthermore, Bard is now available in more countries, such as Brazil and throughout Europe.
Jack Krawczyk, Bard Product Lead, and Amarnag Subramanya, Bard’s VP of Engineering, emphasized Google’s commitment to expanding Bard’s availability across regions and languages while upholding AI principles and safeguarding privacy and data.
Google’s launch of Gemini as a standalone Android app marks a significant step towards providing users with a more streamlined and capable experience. With the combination of Bard and Duet into Gemini, Google aims to offer enhanced functionality and ease of access to its generative AI models. As users embrace this new app, Google’s focus on improving Assistant features and expanding language support indicates a clear direction for the future.
