Google’s flagship suite of generative AI models, apps, and services, Gemini, is making waves in the AI space. Gemini, developed by Google’s AI research labs DeepMind and Google Research, comes in four different versions: Ultra, Pro, Flash, and Nano.
Gemini models are trained to be multimodal, meaning they can work with and analyze more than just text. They have been pre-trained and fine-tuned on various types of data, including audio, images, videos, codebases, and text in different languages.
Gemini is unique in that it can handle tasks beyond text generation, unlike models such as Google’s LaMDA. However, it’s important to note the ethical and legal considerations of using publicly available data to train models like Gemini.
Gemini apps are separate from the models and serve as front ends for interacting with the generative AI. These apps can accept images, voice commands, and text inputs, and conversations can seamlessly transition between the mobile and web versions of Gemini.
Gemini Advanced offers a range of features for users, including the ability to run and edit Python code directly in Gemini, access to Google’s Deep Research feature, and priority access to new features. Users can also benefit from Gemini Advanced for tasks like trip planning and generating research briefs.
Gemini models are gradually being integrated into various Google services and products, offering enhanced functionality in areas like email writing, content generation in Docs, and data organization in Sheets. Gemini’s reach extends to devices like smart home gadgets and plans for future integrations with devices like smart glasses.
The various versions of Gemini models, including Ultra, Pro, Flash, and Nano, are available through the Gemini API for building applications and services. Pricing for these models varies based on usage, with additional features like context caching incurring additional costs.
Project Astra is Google DeepMind’s initiative to create AI-powered apps and agents for real-time, multimodal understanding. While currently a project, Google is exploring ways to incorporate Project Astra into products like smart glasses.
There are talks of bringing Gemini models to the iPhone as part of Apple’s Intelligent suite, though details are still scarce. It’s an exciting time for Gemini, with ongoing developments and updates shaping the future of generative AI.
