Google is giving Workspace users the ability to access “Gems” – customized versions of its Gemini AI assistant that specialize in specific tasks without opening the Gemini app. Gems are now available directly in the sidebar of Google Docs, Slides, Sheets, Drive, and Gmail, allowing users to access chatbots they’ve created or a set of pre-made suggestions without switching between apps.
“Gems can help you further leverage the power of Gemini in a way that more effectively meets your needs while minimizing repetitive prompts,” Google said in a statement.
Gemini users can curate versions of the chatbot to be an “expert” in certain tasks they regularly need, such as brand-specific copywriting or exam preparation. Users can also upload their own files to Gems to give them context and resources for specific tasks. Otherwise, Google provides ready-made Gems for things like editing text, writing code, creating ideas for sales presentations, and more.
Previously, Gems were only available in the Gemini app. Custom Gems cannot be created directly in Workspace apps, but users can do so by going to gemini.google.com/gems/create or by clicking the “Create a new gem” option in the Workspace sidebar. Workspace features such as @mentions and access to files/folders are supported by both custom and pre-created Gems.
The Gems update is available to all Google Workspace users who have access to the Gemini app sidebars in Workspace. The update began rolling out on July 2, but Google says it may take “more than 15 days” to appear.
