Google Unveils New AI Tools and Gemini Models
Google will soon launch a range of new artificial intelligence tools, including an AI assistant to help users with tasks proactively. Dubbed as ‘agentic’ AI, this concept was highlighted at Google’s annual developers conference, Google I/O. One major announcement was the Gemini Spark AI agent. ‘We are firmly in our agentic Gemini era,’ stated Google CEO Sundar Pichai at the event near their Mountain View, California, headquarters. He emphasized the potential of agents but noted that ease of use and security remain a work in progress.
Google and its parent company, Alphabet Inc., continue to invest heavily in AI, with capital expenditures potentially reaching $190 billion this year. These investments are yielding results, as reflected in strong quarterly earnings and an 11% stock increase last month. Pichai revealed that the Gemini app’s user base has grown from 400 million to over 900 million monthly active users within a year.
Gemini 3.5: Speed and Safety
Google’s newest model family, Gemini 3.5, is being rolled out starting with Gemini 3.5 Flash. This model emphasizes speed and is described as four times faster than some competitors. It will be the default model for the Gemini app and Google’s ‘AI mode’ in search. Google is also developing Gemini Pro 3.5, set for release next month.
Safety is a key focus, with Gemini 3.5 incorporating advanced training to reduce harmful outputs and incorrect refusals to respond to safe queries. The company introduced Gemini Omni, a new model enabling high-quality video creation from various inputs such as text, images, or audio. Omni’s features for creating images and audio are yet to be announced, but the model promises more realistic videos due to its understanding of complex dynamics like gravity and energy.
Gemini Flash and Omni Models
Gemini Omni Flash is now available for Google AI Plus, Pro, and Ultra subscribers via the Gemini app and Google Flow. It will also be free on platforms like YouTube Shorts. Videos created with Omni will have a digital watermark, SynthID, for authenticity. Content credentials will confirm whether AI created the content and are expected to be part of search in Chrome soon. Open AI, Kakao, and Eleven Labs are also adopting Google’s SynthID technology.
Gemini Spark: Your AI Assistant in the Cloud
Gemini Spark, powered by Gemini 3.5, will handle routine tasks like compiling meeting notes or emails into actionable documents. Operating from the cloud, Spark works even when devices are inactive. It differentiates itself by seeking permission for significant actions such as sending emails or making purchases. Select testers can access this agent starting Tuesday, with a broader beta release planned for U.S. subscribers to Google AI Ultra tier. By summer, Spark aims to integrate directly into Chrome.
Further announcements introduced Google’s smart glasses, available in two versions: audio glasses and display glasses. The audio version is expected first, offering voice-assisted navigation and real-time translations. Partners include Samsung and eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. Their designs will launch later this year as part of full collections.
AI in Search and Shopping
Last year’s Google conference spotlighted the introduction of ‘AI mode’ on its search engine. Providing conversational responses to queries, AI mode has significantly increased user interaction. AI mode queries have grown over each quarter, with 1 billion monthly users now engaging with this feature. The new Gemini 3.5 Flash model will be standard for search, featuring an upgraded search box that offers AI-based suggestions in addition to multiple input methods, such as text, images, and files.
Google has also introduced the Universal Cart, described as a ‘truly intelligent shopping cart.’ It enables users to add items from various sources, such as Google search or emails, and to track deals or restocks using Gemini models. This tool will debut this summer for search and Gemini app users, with YouTube and Gmail integration planned.
Associated Press Writer Barbara Ortutay in Oakland, California, contributed to this story.