Company releases improved AI model and accompanying subscription plan
Photo courtesy of Google.
By Joshua Levin
Published February 18, 2024 | Updated May 13, 2024 at 11:02 am
Google launched a new version of their Gemini artificial intelligence model Feb. 8, alongside a subscription and a mobile app.
The new AI model, dubbed Gemini Ultra 1.0, is only available to subscribers of Gemini Advanced, a $20 per month subscription service announced at the same time. The older model, Gemini Pro 1.0, is still available for free.
“With our Ultra 1.0 model, Gemini Advanced is far more capable at highly complex tasks like coding, logical reasoning, following nuanced instructions and collaborating on creative projects,” stated Sissie Hsiao, Google’s vice president and general manager for Google Assistant and Gemini.
OpenAI, the AI startup partnered with Microsoft, launched a similar subscription early last year.
In the same post, Hsiao unveiled a new “mobile experience” for Gemini, which comprises a dedicated app on Android and a new feature in the Google app for iOS.
“With Gemini on your phone, you can type, talk or add an image for all kinds of help while you’re on the go,” Hsiao stated. “It’s an important first step in building a true AI assistant — one that is conversational, multimodal and helpful.”
The company also renamed their AI chatbot, formerly known as Bard. The new name, Gemini, reflects that of the family of AI models that power the chatbot.
Google did not respond to The Terabyte Tribune’s request for comment.
Stated Hsiao, “Our mission with Bard has always been to give you direct access to our AI models, and Gemini represents our most capable family of models.”
Joshua Levin is the publisher and executive editor of The Terabyte Tribune, handling all aspects of operations and coverage. He can be reached via email at [email protected]
