Google Rebrands Bard Chatbot as Gemini, Introduces Paid Subscription Options

UTC by Chimamanda U. Martha · 3 min read
Google Rebrands Bard Chatbot as Gemini, Introduces Paid Subscription Options
Photo: Depositphotos

In addition to the rebranding, Google has introduced a dedicated mobile app for Gemini, currently accessible to users in the United States, with plans for a global rollout soon.

Google, a leading global technology giant based in the United States, has announced the rebranding of its artificial intelligence chatbot Bard to Gemini after one year of its initial introduction to the market.

In a blog post on February 8, the Alphabet-owned company unveiled this rebranding alongside a suite of enhancements, including a dedicated mobile application and subscription options for premium customers.

Google Relaunches Bard to Gemini

Gemini, formerly known as Bard, harnesses the power of Google’s advanced AI models, bearing the same name to highlight its cutting-edge capabilities. While Bard initially operated on the LaMDA model, providing users with various functionalities like code debugging and idea generation, the relaunched Gemini now utilizes the upgraded Gemini Pro 1.0 model, offering enhanced service capabilities.

According to Google, Gemini Pro 1.0 is already available in over 230 countries, supporting interactions in 40 languages worldwide, a significant expansion of its AI-driven services.

The rebranding initiative aims to provide users with a clearer understanding of the AI models underlying the chatbot, promoting transparency and engagement.

Google Rolls Out Subscription Options for Premium Users

In addition to the rebranding, Google has introduced a dedicated mobile app for Gemini, currently accessible to users in the United States, with plans for a global rollout soon. The app offers users convenient access to Gemini’s AI-driven assistance, seamlessly integrated with the Google ecosystem.

Furthermore, Google has launched a subscription-based model, Gemini Advanced, within its Google One AI Premium Plan, priced at $19.99 per month, with a two-month free trial period. This premium subscription grants users access to Gemini’s most powerful AI models, including Google’s Ultra 1.0, along with exclusive features and benefits.

Gemini Advanced is designed to handle complex tasks such as coding, logical reasoning, and content creation assistance, positioning itself as a versatile AI assistant. Google plans to continually enhance the tool with additional exclusive features to differentiate itself from competitors like OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

Currently available in over 150 countries in English only, Google aims to expand Gemini Advanced’s language options in the future. The company also plans to integrate the tool with Gmail, Docs, Slides, and Sheets, expanding its accessibility and usability.

“This first version of Gemini Advanced reflects our current advances in AI reasoning and will continue to improve. As we add new and exclusive features, Gemini Advanced users will have access to expanded multimodal capabilities, more interactive coding features, deeper data analysis capabilities and more,” the company said.

Safety Measures

In terms of safety measures, the tech giant reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring the safe and unbiased deployment of its technology, particularly with the introduction of Gemini Advanced.

Prior to the launch of the artificial intelligence product, Google said it conducted rigorous trust and safety evaluations, including external red-teaming exercises to ensure it is safe for use. These measures were implemented to mitigate potential issues such as unsafe content or bias, aligning with the company’s AI Principles.

Furthermore, Google disclosed that the underlying model of Gemini Advanced underwent refinement through fine-tuning and reinforcement learning, guided by human feedback. These efforts aim to enhance the reliability and effectiveness of the AI-powered capabilities offered by Gemini Advanced.

For those seeking additional insights into the safety and technical aspects of Gemini Advanced, Google has published an updated Gemini Technical Report, providing detailed information on the development and implementation of the technology.

Artificial Intelligence, News, Technology News
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