On May 1, Google announced a significant update to its Chrome browser, enabling direct interaction with its proprietary AI chatbot, Gemini, via the Chrome address bar.
This feature, revealed through a tweet from Google, allows users to easily access Gemini by typing “@” followed by “Chat with Gemini” in their Chrome address bar, entering their Query, and receiving responses directly from the Gemini website.
Chrome shared this enhanced feature via a tweet on X.
Quickly start your chat with Gemini using the new shortcut in the Chrome desktop address bar👇
Step 1: Type “@” in the desktop address bar and select Chat with Gemini
Step 2: Write your prompt
Step 3: Get your response on https://t.co/MukYC54K9eSeriously. It’s that easy ✨ pic.twitter.com/F7LdcFCc2a
— Chrome (@googlechrome) April 30, 2024
This integration is part of the stable release version of Chrome and is available to users across various operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
The integration of Gemini into Chrome aims to make AI tools more accessible and user-friendly, enhancing productivity by providing instant assistance directly within the browser without the need to switch applications.
However, this convenience could potentially lead to regulatory challenges, particularly under new laws aimed at curbing the dominance of large tech companies.
As this news broke online, people started sharing their views and opinions regarding it. Some even came up with a suggestion for Chrome that instead of following three steps, adding a small button would be easier.
Adding a small button with a click would be easier
— orange.ai (@oran_ge) May 1, 2024
The Indian Ministry for Corporate Affairs (MCA) recently introduced a draft Digital Competition Bill that targets Systemically Significant Digital Enterprises (SSDEs) and could impact Google due to its bundling of multiple services and self-preferencing of its products.
By incorporating Gemini directly into Chrome, Google may be seen as combining its services in a way that favors its own products, potentially violating provisions against bundling and self-preferencing outlined in the draft bill.
Some said that this feature will bring peace in their life.
Comment
byu/lucrosisgone from discussion
inBard
This integration raises additional concerns regarding data privacy, as it could lead to more extensive collection and use of Personal data by Google.
Critics argue that this setup could enhance Google’s ability to harvest a wide array of user data, potentially using it to improve other services or for targeted advertising.
However, many were found complaining that this feature is not working in their region.
Tried this, did not work. :/
— Reza Chy (@rezalearnedit) May 1, 2024
This feature, initially tested on Canary, the developer version of Chrome, and later rolled out in the stable release, represents a shift in how users interact with AI technologies.
It simplifies the user’s ability to engage with AI, potentially increasing the use of Gemini among Chrome users. As Google rolls out this feature globally, it will be important to monitor the response from competition authorities and assess the impact on Google’s compliance with emerging digital competition standards.
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