Google’s year in retrospect showcases a remarkable stride in artificial intelligence technology, with 14 out of 23 significant moments dedicated to or influenced by AI. Topping the list is Gemini, Google’s largest and most sophisticated AI model as of 2023. Designed to be a versatile powerhouse, Gemini is a multimodal model capable of understanding and combining various data formats, including text, audio, video, and code. Its flexibility extends from mobile phones to data centers, with three distinct sizes—Ultra, Pro, and Nano. Users can already experience the prowess of Gemini Pro in Bard and Gemini Nano in the Pixel 8 Pro.
Bard: An interactive leap in generative AI collaboration
Claiming the second spot is Bard, an interactive experiment that allows collaboration with generative AI. Since its launch, Bard has evolved significantly, acquiring coding capabilities, enhancing visual features, expanding globally, and establishing connections with more Google apps and services. An exciting development is the forthcoming collaboration between Bard and Assistant, which promises a synergistic interaction that enhances the user experience.
Search generative experience (SGE): Transforming information retrieval with AI
The third notable moment revolves around the Search Generative Experience (SGE), a Search Labs experiment leveraging generative AI to facilitate a faster and more accessible understanding of topics. Users can now access AI-powered overviews that consolidate relevant information, complete with links for further exploration. In 2023, SGE introduced the ability to create images using generative AI, adding a visual dimension to information retrieval.
Android 14 and customization updates: Powered by generative AI
Google’s commitment to infusing AI into user experiences continues with the release of Android 14. The mobile operating system introduces numerous customization updates, emphasizing generative AI wallpapers capabilities. Notably, the beta launch of Magic Compose in Google Messages, a generative AI tool, assists users in crafting precise and fitting messages.
AI-centered innovations: A comprehensive overview
Chromebook plus: A powerful, AI-driven device
The Chromebook Plus earns its place as a powerful, AI-driven device, reflecting Google’s commitment to integrating AI into its hardware lineup.
AI-powered photo features: Magic editor and best take
Google introduced AI editing tools, Magic Editor and Best Take, for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, enhancing the photo editing capabilities of its flagship smartphones.
Google workspace expands smart compose with AI
Smart Compose, an AI-powered feature, extends its reach to Google Chat within Google Workspace, providing users with intelligent and efficient text composition.
Duet AI: An AI-powered collaborator across google workspace
Duet AI, an AI-powered collaborator, transitions from an experimental phase to general availability in Google Workspace, acting as a coach, thought partner, and productivity booster.
Virtual try-ons: AI-powered clothing exploration
Google introduces an AI-powered tool enabling users to virtually try on clothing, leveraging a diverse set of 80 real models in various sizes.
YouTube’s AI features: Pushing creative boundaries
At Made on YouTube 2023, Google unveils AI features for creative expression, including AI-generated backgrounds for shorts.
Lab research: A hub for google’s experimental AI tools
Labs, a platform for Google’s experimental AI tools and technologies, is launched, showcasing the company’s commitment to ongoing innovation.
Chrome’s redesign: Aesthetic overhaul with AI-powered extensions
Google revamps the Chrome Web Store, introducing a new look and features like refreshed icons, new color palettes, and AI-powered extensions.
Google’s expanding pixel family and wearable innovations
The Pixel family expands in 2023 with the debut of a new Pixel Tablet, while the Pixel Buds Pro receives an upgrade. Additionally, Google unveiled the Pixel Watch 2 and Fitbit Charge 6, showcasing its commitment to wearable technology.
Health tracking tools and other notable achievements
Google introduced health tracking tools, including fall detection and oxygen saturation tracking, for the Google Pixel Watch. Heat and flood alerts for specific areas, immersive views in Google Maps, RCS reaching 1 billion users in Google Messages, passkeys for enhanced security, fact-checking features, and the celebration of 25 years of Google Search complete the list of Google’s defining moments in 2023.
Google’s dominance in AI technology throughout 2023 underscores the company’s commitment to advancing user experiences across various platforms and services. The integration of AI into hardware, software, and innovative experiments highlights Google’s role as a frontrunner in shaping the future of technology.
