Google is undergoing a significant rebranding effort, consolidating its AI products under a unified umbrella named Gemini. Sissie Hsiao, Google’s head of AI products Bard and Assistant, shed light on this strategic move in a recent interview with Business Insider.
From Bard to Gemini: A Comprehensive Cleanup
Previously, Google had planned to merge its AI products Bard and Assistant under the name “Assistant with Bard.” However, the company has now shifted gears, opting to rename its flagship AI products after its latest and most powerful AI model, Gemini. Bard, the chatbot launched nearly a year ago, is now rebranded as “Gemini,” along with other offerings like Gemini for Workspace.
Embracing the Gemini Brand
Hsiao emphasized the need for clarity and coherence in branding, citing the complexity caused by multiple product names. By embracing Gemini as the overarching AI brand, Google aims to streamline its offerings and enhance user experience. According to Hsiao, this approach ensures that users recognize Gemini as the core AI model powering various Google products.
Introducing Gemini Ultra and Pricing Model
Google introduced Gemini, its latest AI model, in December, with Bard being powered by an earlier version. Now, users can access the most powerful iteration, Gemini Ultra, through Bard/Gemini for a subscription fee of $20 per month. Hsiao expressed confidence in the model’s capabilities, particularly its prowess in generating prose, creating content, and simulating personalities.
Coherence in Branding and Product Offering
The Gemini rebranding initiative aims to create a more cohesive and coherent ecosystem, distancing Google from its past inconsistencies in branding. By unifying its AI products under the Gemini brand, Google seeks to provide users with a more seamless and integrated experience across its platforms.
Expansion to Mobile Platforms
Google’s rebranding efforts extend to mobile platforms, with plans to introduce a dedicated Gemini app on Android, effectively replacing the existing Assistant. iOS users will access Gemini through a new toggle within the Google app. The mobile version of Gemini promises enhanced functionalities, such as image-based queries and contextual overlays.
Future Outlook and Evolution of Assistant
While Gemini represents a significant step forward in Google’s AI strategy, Hsiao emphasized the company’s commitment to evolving the Assistant across various devices and platforms. She highlighted the transition from voice-only interactions to richer AI experiences on screens, signaling Google’s continued investment in expanding Assistant’s capabilities.
As Google navigates this rebranding journey, the adoption of Gemini signifies a bold step towards creating a more unified and intuitive AI ecosystem, poised to redefine user interactions and experiences across the digital landscape.
