SAN FRANCISCO: Alphabet’s Google Cloud on Thursday introduced the Gemini agent, an artificial intelligence (AI) assistant designed to answer questions, manage tasks, create content and write code.
The launch comes as technology companies compete to develop AI agents that can independently complete tasks and work across multiple applications.
OpenAI introduced its always-on agents, called dots, in September. Earlier last month, Meta launched Muse, a personal AI agent designed to shop, book travel, send emails and make payments on users’ behalf.
Alphabet shares edged higher in early trading following the announcement.
Gemini Agent Works Across Business Apps
Google said the Gemini agent can plan tasks, use tools, connect to company systems and deliver completed work through documents, emails and developer environments.
The agent integrates directly with Google Workspace applications, including Gmail, Docs, Sheets and Calendar. It can also work through Microsoft 365 and Slack.
According to Google, the system selects the most suitable AI model for each task. It currently uses models from Google’s Gemini family and Anthropic’s Claude, with additional models expected to be added later.
Businesses Can Create AI Coworkers
The new system allows users to create “coworker agents” that function like team members. Each agent can have its own email address and access only the information assigned to it.
Google is also expanding the technology into specialised industries. Versions designed for financial services and legal work are now available in preview.
Meanwhile, versions for government, healthcare and retail are expected to arrive soon.
The launch reflects the growing push by major technology companies to develop AI systems that can do more than answer prompts and can instead carry out complex, multistep tasks with less human intervention.
