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Google's Gemini AI keeps getting better, with a whole new set of features that greatly improve its functionality. With enhanced research support, personalisation, app integrations, and Gems for all, Gemini AI is fast becoming an essential tool for users across the globe. Here are a few closer insights into what's new and how these features might even make your experience feel more seamless and productive.
Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental brings new features and a longer context window.
The major new feature of the 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental model is additional support for file uploads. The model, which was famous for analysing prompts into formatted steps to enhance reasoning ability, is now even faster and more efficient. Additionally, advanced users of Gemini can now utilise a 1M token context window, which enables them to process and analyse much greater quantities of information. This upgrade allows users to handle more sophisticated issues with greater precision and depth than ever previously.
Google launched Deep Research, a revolutionary Gemini tool which will act like a personal research assistant powered by AI, back in December. Deep Research assists users in minutes to search, synthesise and analyse information throughout the web much faster than conventional manual research.
Deep Research is now equipped with the Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental model, making it even more intelligent. The AI is now able to help in every phase of research, from planning and searching to reasoning and reporting, generating high-quality, multi-page reports that provide more insights. Moreover, Gemini now shows its thought process while surfing the web, being transparent on how it comes up with answers.
Excitingly, Deep Research is launching worldwide in 45+ languages, and more users get to enjoy its enhanced features. Gemini users can sample Deep Research several times a month for free, but Gemini Advanced users get further access, meaning they can save even more time on research work.
One of the most notable new features is real-time video interaction through Gemini Live. This capability allows users to interact with their device screen or smartphone camera, and Gemini can ‘see’ the screen and answer questions regarding its contents. It can also analyse live video streams using the camera, giving instantaneous responses based on visual input. This feature is first offered to Gemini Advanced subscribers under the Google One AI Premium plan, highlighting Google's AI assistant technology improvements.
Canvas is another notable feature, providing an interactive work environment in Gemini for real-time document and code creation and editing. It includes live previews for coding projects, allowing for instant feedback and collaboration. This feature is especially useful for developers and writers who need a dynamic environment for their projects.
Audio Overview converts written information into conversational, podcast-style discussions among AI hosts. One click enables the user to enter a rich dialogue that recapitulates the material, connects points between themes, and presents distinct insights. The feature creates an additional dimension of content listening that facilitates consuming hard information in the auditory realm.
Gems allows users to create personalised AI assistants for particular needs or interests. For example, a user developed a bespoke fitness coach Gem to offer exercise routines and health tips based on individual conditions and goals. Although the AI provides thorough and bespoke guidance, measures are underway to facilitate more context-sensitive feedback.
Google Vids, one of the tools in the Google Workspace package, now supports AI voiceovers for videos. The user can feed in scripts, which the AI reads, with the ability to edit the script and select from different tones and voices. This makes the video-making process more convenient and flexible.
Beginning January 15, 2025, organisations utilising Google Workspace Business or Enterprise plans had access to Gemini AI features. These integrations enhance productivity and innovation in organisations by integrating advanced AI capabilities into common tools.
Gemini has brought personalisation upgrades through integration with other Google apps, including YouTube and Google Photos. Through using data from these apps, Gemini is able to give more personal responses and suggestions, making the overall user experience better.
One of Gemini's most promising developments is how it has become more deeply integrated into Google's collection of apps. Beginning in English, Gemini can now be paired with Google Calendar, Notes, Tasks, and Photos. Through these integrations, Gemini can better manage complicated multi-step requests. For instance, you can now give a single command like:
“Search for a simple cookie recipe on YouTube, add the ingredients to my shopping list, and search for grocery stores in the area that are still open.”
Also, over the next few weeks, Google Photos will be included in the list of linked apps. This will allow you to ask Gemini to remember certain information from your photos, like making a travel plan based on previous trips or reminding you when your driver's licence is up for renewal by scanning the relevant pictures.
At its essence, Gemini AI is not merely technology, it's about simplifying our lives and making them more connected. Whether it's assisting with research, streamlining content creation, or making our daily interactions more personalised, Gemini is redefining the role of an AI assistant. With every update, it's becoming more intuitive, more powerful, and, most importantly, more human in its methodology.
These features are available to Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers, with some functionalities accessible globally. They collectively enhance Gemini’s utility across various applications, from coding and content creation to personalised assistance and research. As Google continues to innovate, users can expect further enhancements that integrate advanced AI capabilities into their daily workflows.
Test these new features today at gemini.google.com and see for yourself how Gemini AI can boost your productivity and efficiency.
