Google introduces Gemini Live as a new AI player to compete with ChatGPT

Google has launched an enhanced artificial intelligence (AI) search and real-time chatbot, intensifying the competition in the rapidly evolving tech industry. On Tuesday, Google introduced 'Gemini Live,' a mobile conversational experience under its AI-powered assistance tool, Gemini.

This new offering allows users to engage in seamless conversations with Gemini, marking a significant advancement in AI interaction.

"Gemini Live begins rolling out today in English to our Gemini Advanced subscribers on Android phones, and in the coming weeks will expand to iOS and more languages," announced Google in an update.

In Kenya, subscriptions to Gemini Advanced are priced at Sh3,700 per month. This new platform enables users to go live and have conversational chats with the AI assistance tool, similar to how one interacts with written-text tools like ChatGPT.

Google describes it as "like having a sidekick in your pocket who you can chat with about new ideas or practice with for an important conversation."

A standout feature of Gemini Live is its hands-free capability. Users can continue their conversations while the app is running in the background or even when the phone is locked, allowing for uninterrupted dialogue on the go, much like a regular phone call.

To enhance the natural feel of speaking with Gemini, Google has introduced ten new voices for users to choose from, allowing them to select the tone and style that best suits their preferences.

This rollout is part of a wave of recent announcements from major tech firms as the AI buzz continues to gain momentum globally. Just last week, ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, unveiled a new text-to-video tool called Jimeng AI.

This tool enables users to create short videos based on written prompts, pushing the boundaries of innovation in a field dominated by Microsoft and Google.

Automattic, the owner of WordPress, launched 'Write Brief with AI' in the same week, a tool that aims to help bloggers write more clearly and concisely. This tool flags unnecessary words and complex language that might alienate readers, aiming to improve the clarity and accessibility of blog posts.

Earlier in June, Meta-owned WhatsApp introduced its first AI-driven ad-targeting program for business accounts. This program aims to optimise ad delivery to users who are most likely to engage, enhancing the platform's advertising efficiency.

In addition, WhatsApp launched a new AI chatbot to answer business enquiries directly in a chat, encouraging businesses to automate their communications.