Google has introduced a major update to its Gemini AI engine, promising to enhance user experience across its services.
Detailed in a recent blog post, the update reveals that Gemini is now powered by the 1.5 Flash language model, specifically optimized for speed and efficiency. This upgraded model boasts a 4x-longer context window, expanding from 8K to 32K tokens, which aims to deliver higher quality and more accurate responses.
One of the key highlights of this update is the expansion of Gemini’s capabilities to Google Messages across Europe. This includes support for new languages such as French, Polish, and Spanish, broadening the tool’s accessibility and utility for a more diverse user base. Furthermore, the Gemini app is now available in a staggering 230 countries and territories, significantly extending its global reach.
Originally unveiled at Google I/O in May 2024, the Gemini 1.5 Flash model was initially accessible only to paying customers. However, with this update, the advanced features of the model are now available to users of the free version as well. This democratization of access means that more users can take advantage of longer, more complex prompts and receive enhanced responses.
A notable feature of the Gemini 1.5 Flash is its ability to support uploaded files from Google Drive or the user’s device, although this functionality is currently exclusive to Gemini Advanced. Amar Subramanya, Google’s VP of Engineering, has assured users that this feature will soon be available to free-tier users as well.
In addition to these enhancements, Google has introduced a feature that provides related content after the initial response. This functionality, essentially an AI-powered Google search, will also integrate relevant Gmail-related answers when necessary, further enriching the user experience.
Looking ahead, Google is set to expand Gemini’s accessibility to teens globally in the coming weeks. Currently, the AI is available to users aged 13 and above, except in the European Economic Area (EEA), where the minimum age is 18. The upcoming “Gemini for Teens” will include additional policies and safeguards, developed in collaboration with child safety and development experts, to ensure it meets the unique needs of teens and families.
This comprehensive update underscores Google’s commitment to enhancing the functionality and accessibility of its AI services, making advanced technology available to a broader audience while ensuring user safety and satisfaction.