Google is gearing up for substantial updates to its artificial intelligence (AI) models, with reports suggesting a name change from Bard to Gemini. A leaked change-log by Android app developer Dylan Roussel reveals this shift, indicating that Gemini is positioned as Google’s response to compete with OpenAI’s GPT-4.
The change-log states, “Bard is now Gemini. Gemini is the best way to get direct access to Google AI. All the collaborative capabilities you know and love are still here, and will keep getting better in the Gemini era.”
While an official statement from Google is yet to be made regarding the rebranding of Bard to Gemini, the document mentions an evolution in UI to reduce visual distractions, enhance legibility, and simplify navigation.
Notably, Gemini will introduce voice chat, along with a new “Ultra 1.0” model accompanied by “Gemini Advanced,” a premium plan offering features similar to ChatGPT Plus, including file uploading capabilities.
“Gemini Advanced gives you access to our most capable AI model, Ultra 1.0. With our Ultra 1.0 model, Gemini Advanced is far more capable at highly complex tasks like coding, logical reasoning, following nuanced instructions, and creative collaboration,” as per the document.
Gemini Advanced, a paid plan, is set to expand with new exclusive features, such as enhanced multi-modal capabilities, improved coding features, and the ability to upload and deeply analyze files, documents, data, and more.
This paid plan, available in over 150 countries and territories, is slated for further expansion in the coming months. The Gemini app, initially launching in English, will roll out soon.
In a move to extend its reach, Google has made Gemini Pro, initially introduced into its AI chatbot Bard in English last December, accessible in more than 230 countries and territories across 40 languages, including nine Indian languages—Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Gujarati, and Urdu.
