Google Gemini
For a tech journalist, few things trigger skepticism faster than companies boasting about AI integration. The term "artificial intelligence" has become a marketing buzzword, often slapped onto features that offer little practical value. So, when Google announced its Gemini AI model at the Made by Google event, I braced myself for disappointment.
Imagine my surprise when I came away genuinely impressed. While some reservations remain, Google's vision for Gemini on Pixel devices like the Pixel 9 holds immense potential. Here's why a long-time AI skeptic is starting to believe.
Unveiling Gemini's Multimodal Power
Unlike most mobile AI assistants, Gemini isn't limited to text. It's "multimodal," meaning it can interpret images, videos, and even code. This unlocks some impressive capabilities.
In a demo, a user simply wrote a note about the Pixel 9's August 22nd ship date on their phone. Gemini automatically created a pre-order reminder and added the date to their calendar. Sure, you could do this manually, but it requires switching apps and interrupting your workflow. Gemini eliminates that hassle.
Another demo showcased Gemini watching a YouTube video about Korean restaurants. It then compiled a list of the featured dishes in a note app. As someone who frequently watches cooking videos, this is a game-changer. No more frantically scribbling notes while rewinding; Gemini takes care of it all.
AI as Your Helpful Assistant, Not a Replacement
These examples are compelling because they highlight how AI can save time by automating tedious tasks. However, AI falters when it attempts creative endeavors. Google has stumbled here before, with their widely criticized AI-generated fan mail for the Olympics.
Luckily, Google appears to understand that Gemini thrives by removing roadblocks to productivity. Take "Gemini with Research," an upcoming feature for Gemini Advanced. This allows you to task Gemini with online research. In the demo, it researched after-school martial arts programs.
Before diving in, Gemini displays a customizable action plan outlining its search strategy. It then scours the web, compiling a report with relevant information in Google Docs. The report even includes links to the source material.
This approach to research is impressive. While Gemini can likely find information faster and more comprehensively than I could, it doesn't replace me entirely. I can adjust the research plan and evaluate the sources to ensure they meet my needs. Instead of blindly delegating tasks, I collaborate with Gemini, letting it handle the legwork while I make informed decisions.
The Power of Natural Conversation: Gemini Live
Another promising feature is "Gemini Live," the voice-powered chatbot rolling out to Gemini Advanced subscribers. This natural-sounding assistant aims to address the frustration of struggling with Siri-like voice assistants that misinterpret your meaning.
One exciting aspect of Gemini Live is its potential as a brainstorming tool. Imagine asking it for weekend activity ideas and having it generate suggestions, allowing you to interrupt and refine them as needed. Gemini understands the conversation's context, permitting informal and off-the-cuff questions.
While I need to experience Gemini Live firsthand to form a complete opinion, the conversational aspect is intriguing. It signifies a collaborative approach to AI, where the chatbot responds to your input and tailors information to your needs.
A Glimpse of the Future, But Caution is Necessary
Despite my newfound optimism, some concerns linger. Features like image generation hold little appeal for me. Additionally, there's a risk of lazy users plagiarizing outputs from Gemini with Research. Maintaining robust privacy safeguards is paramount.
However, unlike most AI features that feel like gimmicks, what I saw with Gemini this week was different. Google seems to be building a genuine tool to empower users and unlock the full potential of their Pixel devices. That's a reason to be cautiously optimistic about the future of AI on smartphones.