Google is rebranding its Bard AI tool to Gemini, with the change expected to happen next week. This rebranding includes a name change and significant updates to the tool, such as an evolved user interface designed to reduce visual distractions, improve legibility, and simplify navigation. Additionally, Google plans to introduce a choice chat feature with Gemini and launch a new “ultra 1.0” version of the AI. Gemini will also be integrated with Google apps like Gmail, Maps, and YouTube, and will be accessible through text, voice, or images on Android and iOS devices. The rebranding aims to reflect Google’s commitment to providing direct access to its AI technologies across supported countries and languages, with the Gemini app expected to be available soon in English in the US, followed by Japanese, Korean, and English globally, except for the UK, Switzerland, European Economic Area countries, and associated territories. The launch in Canada is scheduled for February 7, marking the first time the AI tool will be available in one of the major regions without prior support[1][2][3].
What is the reason behind the rebranding of Bard to Gemini?
Google is reportedly rebranding its Bard AI tool to Gemini as part of a broader strategy to align its various generative AI services under a single brand. The rebranding to Gemini is likely due to the introduction of Google’s new multimodal AI model, also named Gemini, at the end of 2023, which has begun to be integrated into some of Google’s products, including Bard[1][3]. This move could simplify branding and product offerings for users and create a more cohesive AI ecosystem within Google’s suite of services.
The leaked document detailing the rebranding suggests that the change will also coincide with the introduction of a paid tier called Gemini Advanced, which will provide users with access to the Ultra 1.0 model of Gemini, capable of more complex tasks[1]. Additionally, the rebranding seems to be part of a larger update that includes an evolved user interface to reduce visual distractions, improve legibility, and simplify navigation, as well as the introduction of voice chat capabilities and a new Android app for Gemini[2].
The rebranding may also be influenced by user feedback or survey results, as suggested by a Reddit post indicating that “Gemini” won a survey, which could be the most probable reason behind the sudden rename[4]. However, it’s important to note that while the rebranding has been widely reported, Google has not publicly confirmed these plans as of the information available.
In summary, the rebranding of Bard to Gemini appears to be a strategic move by Google to consolidate its AI offerings under a unified brand, potentially driven by the introduction of the new Gemini AI model and influenced by user preferences or survey results.
Useful links:
[1] https://www.pcmag.com/news/google-is-rebranding-bard-to-gemini
[2] https://www.engadget.com/google-is-reportedly-rebranding-bard-to-gemini-and-plans-to-launch-a-dedicated-app-204442265.html
[3] https://9to5google.com/2024/02/03/google-bard-gemini-rebrand-android-app-date/
[4] https://www.newsbreak.com/news/3321814372522-google-is-reportedly-rebranding-bard-to-gemini-and-plans-to-launch-a-dedicated-app
[5] https://www.maginative.com/article/google-is-rebranding-bard-as-gemini/
[6] https://cryptorank.io/news/feed/77f9c-google-announces-renaming-of-bard-to-gemini
[7] https://www.androidpolice.com/google-rebrand-assistant-with-bard-gemini/
[8] https://wccftech.com/say-goodbye-to-bard-as-google-is-going-to-fully-rename-it-to-gemini/