Google has rebranded its AI chatbot from “Bard” to “Gemini” and released an upgraded version to the public. According to the global tech giant, the new Gemini Pro artificial intelligence model would first be accessible in South Africa before being expanded to other African regions.
The global tech giant plans to launch a new mobile experience for Gemini and Gemini Advanced in South Africa next week, including a Gemini app for Android and a Google app for iOS.
“With Gemini on your phone, you can type, chat, or attach an image to get help while you’re on the go: take a picture of your flat tire and ask for directions, create a personalized image for your dinner party invitation, or ask for assistance with a difficult text message. “It’s an important first step toward creating a true AI assistant that is conversational, multimodal, and helpful,” the statement stated.
Google launched the new chatbot in South Africa after observing a 370% spike in AI searches in the past year and a 650% increase over the prior five years.
Another Google poll revealed that South African respondents were already noticing the influence of AI on how people access information, learn, and work.
Amid the excitement and ecstasy of the new upgrade, Google has also revealed that Gemini Advanced would be offered as a subscription service for R429,99/month, with a free two-month trial period.
According to the tech company, “as part of our brand new Google One AI Premium Plan, this plan gives the best of Google AI and our latest advancements, along with all the benefits of the existing Google One Premium plan, such as 2TB of storage.” It also said that AI Premium members will soon be able to utilize Gemini in Gmail, Docs, Slides, Sheets, and other apps.
According to Google, Gemini Advanced will provide users in over 150 countries and territories with access to Ultra 1.0, our largest and most capable cutting-edge AI model, which excels at highly complex tasks such as coding, logical reasoning, following nuanced instructions, and collaborating on creative projects. It is presently available in English and will be expanded to other languages.
Gemini, previously known as ‘Bard’, has seen a significant boost in performance and utilization since its debut in December. With the new version, the chatbot is anticipated to compete with OpenAI’s most advanced model, ChatGPT 4, as well as other available AI models.