On Wednesday, Google launched a new wave of artificial intelligence, aiming to take on more human tasks and thinking. The company seeks to stay at the forefront of AI technology while also navigating regulatory challenges to its vast empire.
This new generation of Google’s AI is branded as Gemini, which was introduced a year ago. Google presents the launch of Gemini 2.0 as a key step in developing AI agents that can interpret images viewed through a smartphone, handle various repetitive tasks, remember conversations with users, assist gamers with strategies, and even improve online search experiences.
In a blog post, Google CEO Sundar Pichai suggested that Gemini 2.0’s technology will “understand more about the world around you, think several steps ahead, and take action for you, under your supervision.” This ambition mirrors the efforts of competitors like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s array of similar tools on Windows.
Initially, much of Google’s new AI will be available only to test groups and subscribers paying $20 per month for Gemini Advanced, although some features will be accessible through the search engine and mobile apps. Google plans to expand the technology next year, integrating it into its free products such as Chrome, digital maps, and YouTube.
Beyond competing with OpenAI and other emerging companies, Google also aims to stay ahead of Apple, which is incorporating AI into its latest iPhones and devices. After releasing an update for the iPhone’s Siri assistant, Apple plans to roll out additional AI features before the end of the year.
Despite these advances, Google faces a legal battle, as the U.S. Justice Department seeks to break up the company due to anti-competitive practices related to its dominant search engine, which was ruled an illegal monopoly earlier this year.
Gemini 2.0 will also enhance the AI-powered overviews in search results, replacing traditional website links. These AI-driven summaries were initially criticized for offering bizarre suggestions, such as putting glue on pizza, but Google has refined them. With Gemini 2.0, the company promises even more accurate and human-like reasoning, improved math problem-solving, and the ability to generate code. These updates will first be tested with a select audience before becoming available more widely next year.
Additionally, Gemini 2.0 will enhance an experimental AI agent called “Project Astra,” improving its conversational abilities and versatility. Google plans to expand the group testing Project Astra, though details about the size of the group remain undisclosed.
As part of Gemini 2.0, Google will also test a new Chrome extension called “Project Mariner,” which simplifies online searches by automatically filtering through results for users.
If the Justice Department’s efforts succeed, Google may be forced to sell or separate Chrome due to its monopolistic practices. Google has criticized this proposal as too broad and has vowed to resist any breakup attempt during federal court proceedings scheduled for next spring.
Even if the court orders a breakup, Google could appeal, leading to a lengthy legal process, all while the company pushes forward with its AI innovations.
“I’m excited to see what this next era brings,” Pichai wrote, indicating that the company is confident it will move ahead despite regulatory challenges.
