Google’s Gemini AI: History, Use Cases and Controversies Explained

AI has become the go-to tool for various industries, offering new features left and right from multiple companies. Among these is Google’s Gemini AI, which can handle a wide range of tasks. Whether helping you create a survey or researching the latest trends in marketing, Gemini AI can perform the unimaginable. 

Yet, as powerful as the technology is, Gemini has issues. Since its initial release, it has sparked controversy among users. Considering this, businesses should be aware of this when using this technology to make decisions. First, it is essential to understand this large language model (LLM) and all it can do.

History of Google’s Gemini AI

Google Gemini began as a project to advance AI. Formerly known as Google Bard, the tech giant released Gemini in early 2023. Initially, the LLM’s focus was to create an AI system that could assist in tasks like answering complex questions or facilitating creative endeavors. 

Over time, Google made several developments to Gemini, integrating the latest natural language processing and machine learning technologies. Since the official launch of this conversational bot, Gemini has quickly garnered attention in the tech community.

But, why the change in the name? Google renamed its AI project to better represent its newer features and put Bard’s criticism to rest. Much like the Gemini zodiac sign — the name change symbolizes its dual-natured personality and ability to adapt quickly — among many other characteristics. This rebranding is much more closely suited to the project’s direction as it grows and improves.

What Can Google’s Gemini AI Do?

Gemini functions as a chatbot and an LLM, allowing it to interact naturally with users and handle large data processing tasks. The AI system comes in four versions to cater to various needs. For example, Gemini Ultra can handle large tasks, while Gemini Pro is a lighter version that balances performance and scalability.

For small businesses, Gemini can assist in various activities, including:

• Customer support: Gemini AI can automate customer service by handling customer inquiries, providing product information, and resolving common issues.
• Content creation: Gemini can assist in creative content creation processes, such as assembling blog post outlines, social media post ideas and ad copy edits.
• Market analysis: Businesses can leverage Gemini to analyze customer feedback, track industry trends and gain insights into competitor strategies.

Overall, Gemini AI is enabling streamlined processes for businesses of all sizes. It has become a game-changer in various industries. With instant responses, Gemini enables small companies to create compelling marketing materials and boost customer engagement. 

Additionally, Gemini is integrated with Google’s services, such as Gmail, Google Search, Google Workspace, Maps, Google Assistant and more. So, if you have to respond to an email, you can have Gemini do it in the most appropriate tone and formatting.

The AI Controversies

When Google first introduced Gemini, this was when Microsoft had already partnered with OpenAI. The pair collaborated to integrate ChatGPT into Microsoft’s Bing search engine. The generative AI field was rapidly growing, which led to intense competition for Google. In a rush to outpace its rival, Google released Gemini to position itself at the forefront of AI.

However, anytime a company releases a product too quickly, serious consequences can take effect. Products need thorough testing to ensure they are safe for the public to use — especially with AI — as they can become heavily biased.

Google’s Gemini AI is a prime example of what happens when rushing to innovate and capture market share. 

One major issue with Gemini was the AI’s image generation feature. It faced serious criticism for altering historical depictions. For instance, it created a photo of the pope as an Indian woman and WWII German soldiers as Asian or Black individuals. 

Source: https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/21/24079371/google-ai-gemini-generative-inaccurate-historical

While this may have been Gemini’s attempt to increase diversity, these instances raised major concerns about the potential for AI to rewrite the history of racial and gender discrimination and misinform users.

Additionally, the AI tool encountered malfunctions in providing information on political figures. When asked to share three facts about left-wing House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and right-wing Speaker Mike Johnson, it easily provided details about Pelosi but refused to do so for Johnson and issued an election warning instead.

The issue with these incidents is the inaccuracies, which is a concern with any LLM. Such misinformation can shape perceptions, warping them into a reality that raises safety and ethical concerns. 

The Future of Gemini AI

While Gemini’s launch was a setback, the LLM is becoming one of the top AI tools on the market. Although the Pro version has a quality index rating of 94, Gemini AI may increase the ranks with new features. 

Source: https://www.androidheadlines.com/2024/07/google-gemini-may-get-an-option-to-edit-ai-generated-images.html

One of the most exciting developments is its integration with Google Home. This extension will enable users to control smart home appliances through the AI model, including automation features such as light and thermostat adjustments.

Additionally, Gemini AI will access real-time flight information from Google Flights and pass phone call commands through Google Assistant. For small businesses, this will make everyday tasks more convenient.

Another feature on the horizon is how it will be able to interact with phone settings and apps. Gemini AI will become a handy assistant on your smartphone and provide a seamless user experience on your device. 

Google has also hinted at adding an AI-generated image editing feature. Once content creators prompt Gemini to create an image, they will have two editing options:

• Prompt-based editing: Users can describe the changes they want.
• Circle-to-edit: This allows direct manipulation of images.

These features are excellent for personal or professional use. As they roll out, Gemini AI could become an indispensable part of everyday life, prioritizing convenience for all users.

How to Access It

If you would like to test this AI model out for yourself, accessing it is straightforward. Gemini AI is available through the Google app on Apple or Android devices. Users can initiate commands or inquiries by speaking into their device through the app.

Gemini is also available in Google Workspace. With integrations through Google Vertex AI and Google AI Studio, users can leverage Gemini AI while working in Docs, Sheets, Gmail and more. They can type or speak their prompts directly into the chat, and it will provide responses or perform tasks. 

Add-on features like these will make it easy for businesses to perform everyday tasks. Through automated systems, individuals can streamline their workflows and maximize productivity with their technology stack.

Google’s Gemini Is Part of the AI Future

Google’s Gemini AI is becoming a promising tool in the artificial intelligence marketplace. With enhanced capabilities, it offers increased versatility for personal and professional users. 

However, Gemini still has some kinks that Google needs to fix and is actively working to correct them. Nevertheless, knowing about the AI model’s latest developments will be key to leveraging its fullest potential and making professional endeavors within closer reach.