Google unveils Gemini, its advanced AI chatbot, formerly known as Bard, now accessible in English and French to Canadians. (Google)
Google has made an announcement today regarding its artificial intelligence chatbot, previously known as Bard, which is now accessible to Canadians in both English and French under the new name Gemini.
Explaining the reason behind the name change, Sissie Hsiao, vice president and general manager of Gemini experiences and Google Assistant, stated that the objective behind Bard, now Gemini, has always been to provide direct access to their AI models. She further added that Gemini symbolizes their most capable family of models, signifying a shift towards a more powerful platform.
Jules Walter, Google's group product manager for Gemini experiences, described Gemini as a significantly more potent model, which was introduced in December in three different versions tailored for various devices and applications.
Gemini Nano was developed to manage on-device smartphone processing, while Gemini Pro caters to Bard's functionalities. Additionally, Gemini Ultra, an advanced model capable of coding and logical reasoning, is available through Gemini Advanced, a premium subscription service.
The launch of Gemini Advanced coincides with the introduction of the new Google One AI Premium Plan, which is priced at C$26.99 per month, offering a two-month free trial period. Jack Krawczyk, product lead for Gemini experiences, highlighted that this plan encompasses all features of the Google One Premium Plan along with the inclusion of "the best of Google AI." Subscribers will soon have access to Gemini in Gmail, Docs, Slides, and Sheets, previously known as Duet AI, now rebranded as Gemini for Google Workspace.
Additionally, mobile applications for Gemini are in the pipeline, initially available only in English. Android users will have access to a new Gemini app, while iOS users can access Gemini through the Google app.
Presently, access to Gemini is available solely through its website.
