Google Chrome Update: Gen AI Gemini promises to boost productivity

With a new dedicated side panel, where Chrome users get easy access to Gen AI Gemini. It doesn't matter what tab the user is in, he/she will find Gemini on the right side. It can help save time and multitask with as few interruptions as possible. Users can keep the primary work open on one tab while using the side panel to handle a different task.

After bringing the Gemini 3.0-powered update to Google Photos, Search and other apps, Google has finally introduced the new generative Artificial Intelligence (gen AI) upgrades to the Chrome browser.

Chrome is getting a new dedicated side panel, where users get easy access to Gen AI Gemini. It doesn't matter what tab the user is in, he/she will find Gemini on the right side. It can help save time and multitask with as few interruptions as possible. Users can keep the primary work open on one tab while using the side panel to handle a different task.

This will greatly reduce the need for multiple tabs for new tasks and ensure the computer works more smoothly.

Google's browser also gets the much awaited gen AI Nano Banana multi-media editing tools. This will allow users transform images on the fly without needing to download and re-upload images or open another tab. The user has to just type a prompt in the side panel to explain what he/she wants. They can create digital greeting cards or turn research data into visually pleasing infographics

However, it will have limited image creation capabilities for the free version. If you have AI plans, users will be able to perform more work. Available to all Gemini in Chrome users.

Google Chrome side panel for Gemini AI.

With the Gemini 3.0 update, Chrome will be deeply connected with Google apps such as Gmail, Calendar, YouTube, Maps, Google Shopping and Google Flights. On the side panel, users can plan a trip itinerary. Based on the previous flights or hotel bookings available on emails and other connected apps, Gemini will offer personalised recommendations.

Currently, Chrome is capable of auto-filling Gmail IDs and passwords based on data stored in the password manager. Now, with the new update, Chrome will be able to perform more than simple tasks. Called Chrome Auto Browse 2, it is a powerful agentic experience that handles multi-step chores on behalf of the user.

It can perform complex travel logistics or get help with professional workflows. The new Auto browse can help the user optimise their vacation planning by doing some of the mundane work, like researching hotel and flight costs across multiple date options, so the user can find a budget-friendly time to travel.

Also, Chrome will support Google’s Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), a new open standard for agentic commerce co-developed with industry leaders including Shopify, Etsy, Wayfair and Target. This new open standard ensures that AI agents will be able to take actions on a user's behalf seamlessly in Chrome. Once the user says to find a particular colour of an outfit, it will be able to find the right item, and this saves users time by avoiding scrolling on the e-commerce site endlessly.

For safety purposes, the auto browse is designed to pause and explicitly ask for the user's confirmation or prompt them to complete some tasks, like making a purchase or posting on social media.

All the aforementioned gen AI features will be initially available for Chrome users with AI Pro and Ultra subscribers in the US. It is expected to be expanded to more regions in the coming months.

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