Google Gemini is Google’s suite of generative AI features that power conversationswritingresearchand creative tools across Google’s apps and devices.
Introduced as a model family in late 2023 and rolled out to consumers in 2024Gemini has steadily expanded from a standalone chatbot into AndroidGoogle WorkspaceChromeSearchand smart‑home experiences.
What does Google Gemini do?
Google Gemini is an umbrella term for a wide range of generative AI capabilities available across Google’s ecosystem. It includes:
- Conversational help for general questionscodingmathand planning
- Writing tools for draftingrewritingsummarizingtranslatingand changing tone
- Multimodal analysis of imagesPDFsscreenshotsand documents
- Long‑context research and multi‑file analysis in Gemini Advanced
- Custom assistantscalled Gemsbuilt for recurring tasks
- AI image generation and newer video creation features where available
- Livevoice‑based help with visual guidance using a phone’s camera
These features appear in the Gemini app and in products like DocsGmailSlidesSheetsand the Android system.
How does Google Gemini work?
Gemini runs on a family of AI models designed for different levels of speedpowerand efficiency.
Some Gemini features run in the cloud on Google’s serverswhile others operate directly on supported devices. This mix allows Gemini to handle complex tasks while also supporting fastermore privacy‑sensitive actions on‑device.
Google currently offers several main model tiers:
- Gemini 3 Pro and Flash: The latest general‑purpose models used for most Gemini apps and integrationsbalancing capability with speed and cost.
- Earlier Ultra‑class models: Previously represented the most powerful Gemini configuration and still underpin some “advanced” and long‑context capabilities in Gemini Advanced.
- Gemini Nano: A lightweight on‑device model used for tasks like smart repliessummariesand other quick actions on supported Android phones.
For privacyGemini experiences include data‑control settings that let users manage how prompts and outputs are handled. On‑device features process data locallywhile cloud‑based features use standard Google account controlsand Workspace and enterprise deployments follow stricter data‑handling and isolation rules.
Where is Google Gemini available?
Gemini is available across a growing number of platforms:
- Web: The main Gemini web app is available at gemini.google.com and supports 70+ languages in over 230 countries and territories.
- Android (Gemini app): On Pixel 9 and laterGemini comes preinstalled and works as the default assistantaccessible via the power buttongesturesor “Hey Google.” On other Android phonesincluding older PixelsGemini is available for free from the Play Store and can be set as the default assistant on supported devices.
- iOS: A dedicated Gemini app is available from the App Store; it runs alongside Siri and does not replace it.
- Google apps (Workspace): Gemini‑powered features are integrated into DocsGmailSheetsSlidesand Meet through Gemini for Workspace or related add‑onssubject to admin and regional availability.
- Chrome and Search: Gemini models back AI‑powered summaries and tools in Chrome and Google Search (for exampleAI Overviews)with Gemini in Chrome rolling out in the Chrome side panel on WindowsmacOSand ChromeOS (including Chromebook Plus devices); rollouts are region‑ and language‑specific.
- Smart devices: Gemini is gradually replacing Google Assistant on Android AutoWear OS watchesGoogle TVand compatible smart‑home speakers and displays through the new Gemini‑powered home assistant experiencestarting in the US and expanding over time.
Availability varies by countrylanguageand deviceand not all features are enabled everywhere.
Will Google Gemini come to older devices?
Gemini is broadly accessible through the web and mobile appsbut some advanced or on‑device features require newer hardware.
On Androidfeatures that rely on on‑device processing are available only on newer phones that support Gemini Nano. Older devices may still access Gemini through cloud‑based appsbut won’t support all system‑level capabilities.
How much does Google Gemini cost?
Gemini is available in both free and paid tiers:
- Free Gemini provides access through web and mobile apps with standard limits and smaller context windows.
- Gemini Advanced is a paid subscription that unlocks more powerful modelslong‑context researchcustom Gemsearly access to new featuresand bundled Google storage.
For businesses and developersGemini is also available through Workspace add‑ons and Google Cloud tools.
When did Google Gemini launch?
Gemini replaced Bard in 2024 and has expanded steadily since then. New featuresmodel upgradesand device integrations continue to roll out in stages.
How do I add Google Gemini?
To start using Gemini:
- Visit gemini.google.com and sign in with a Google account
- Install the Gemini app on Android from Google Play or iOS from the App Store
- On supported Android devicesset Gemini as the default assistant in system settings
How do I activate Google Gemini?
Gemini does not require a separate activation on most platforms. Once you’re signed infeatures are available automatically based on your deviceregionand subscription level. Gemini Advanced can be enabled by upgrading within the app.
What are the competitors to Google Gemini?
Apple Intelligence is available on supported iPhonesiPadsand Macs. Samsung Galaxy AI runs on recent Galaxy devices. Microsoft Copilot is integrated into WindowsEdgeand Microsoft 365.
Security researchers uncovered a Gemini weakness that allowed ordinary-looking meeting invites to manipulate calendar behavior without using traditional malware.
