Google made a significant announcement on Wednesday, introducing a new array of artificial intelligence tools designed to take on various human tasks. The tech giant aims to remain at the forefront of AI innovation while addressing potential regulatory challenges that threaten its business operations.
The newly launched AI capabilities fall under the Gemini brand, originally introduced a year ago. Google is promoting the release of Gemini 2.0 as a platform for AI agents that can interpret images from smartphones, manage tedious tasks, remember past conversations, assist gamers with strategies, and improve online search capabilities.
CEO Sundar Pichai emphasized in a blog post that Gemini 2.0 would be able to “understand more about the world around you, think multiple steps ahead and take action on your behalf, with your supervision.” This objective mirrors the ambitions of competitors like OpenAI’s chatGPT and Microsoft’s suite of similar AI tools in Windows.
Initially, the latest AI features will be available to select test groups and subscribers who opt for the $20 monthly Gemini Advanced plan. However, some functionalities will be accessible through Google’s search engine and mobile apps. Broader releases are anticipated next year, with the technology expected to be integrated into the company’s various free offerings, such as Chrome, Maps, and YouTube.
In addition to competing with OpenAI and various startups, Google aims to stay ahead of Apple, which is integrating AI into its latest devices. Recently, Apple released updates to enhance its Siri assistant with initial “Apple Intelligence” features, indicating a push towards AI integration in its iPhone line.
Despite facing legal scrutiny from the U.S. Justice Department regarding its dominance in the search engine market—a status declared an illegal monopoly by a federal judge in a significant antitrust case—Google is advancing its AI initiatives. The department’s goal is to dismantle parts of the company to curtail its monopolistic behavior.
Among the enhancements in Gemini 2.0 is an upgrade to the AI overviews showcased in search results, which were previously overshadowed by traditional website links. This change comes in response to the emergence of AI-generated “answer engines” like Perplexity. After some initial inaccuracies, such as suggesting glue on pizza, Google has refined this technology, promising improved reliability with Gemini 2.0’s launch. This version aims to engage in more human-like reasoning and tackle more complex mathematical problems while also generating computer code. The improved AI Overviews will initially roll out to a test audience before a wider release next year.
Another feature of Gemini 2.0 includes advancing an experimental universal AI agent known as “Project Astra,” intended to facilitate more meaningful conversations and interactions with users. Google plans to expand the group testing Project Astra, although specific numbers remain undisclosed.
Additionally, a Chrome extension titled “Project Mariner” is set to undergo testing, designed to perform online searches and analyze the results—aiming to simplify the process for users.
If the Justice Department’s plans proceed, Google may be required to sell or offload Chrome as part of the consequences for its alleged anti-competitive practices. The company has dismissed the department’s proposals as excessively broad and has committed to fighting any breakup attempts during federal court hearings slated for next spring.
Even if the court mandates a separation, Google could appeal, prolonging the resolution process while continuing its AI advancements. Pichai expressed enthusiasm about the future, stating, “I can’t wait to see what this next era brings,” indicating that the company remains undeterred by regulatory pressures.