Google Updates: Gemini enhancements, Google Docs templates, and Messages profile customization

Google has introduced several updates to its platforms, improving user experience and functionality across Gemini, Google Docs, and Google Messages. Here are the highlights:

Gemini: Web and App Enhancements

Google has refined the user interface (UI) for Gemini on both its website and Android app:

• Text Field Changes on Web:
  • The text field on the Gemini website now matches the mobile app’s design.
  • The “Upload Image” icon is positioned first on the left. For Advanced subscribers, this menu provides access to features like uploading images, files, Drive content, and Code folders.
  • The “Ask Gemini” button follows, and the microphone icon at the end is now filled in for better visibility.
  • The input box now features a thin outline instead of a raised container. These updates are available for most users.
• Model Identification on Android App:
  • Users can now see model details on the app’s homepage, such as “Gemini Advanced” and “1.5 Pro” or “Gemini” and “1.5 Flash.”
  • In conversations, “1.5 Pro” replaces “Gemini Advanced.” This feature is rolling out gradually.
• New “Saved Info” Shortcut:
  • Added to the account menu, this shortcut opens a browser link to manage saved information: gemini.google.com/saved-info.

Google Docs: 40 New Templates

Google Docs now offers 40 new templates with modern, high-quality designs. These templates utilize recent features like placeholder chips, document tabs, and building blocks to streamline document creation.

• Template Categories:
  • Templates include options for various needs: meeting notes, business proposals, class notes, content calendars, newsletters, onboarding documents, project roadmaps, and more.
  • Templates are designed for personal, business, and educational use.
• How to Access Templates:
  • Navigate to File > New > From template gallery or use the “Templates” suggestion chip at the top of a blank page.
  • Users can preview templates before inserting them into their documents.

These templates are available for all Google Workspace customers, Workspace Individual subscribers, and personal account users. Google has promised more templates in the near future.

Google Messages: Profile Customization

Google Messages is expanding its profile features to allow users more control over how they appear to others:

• New “Your Profile” Settings:
  • Users can now customize their name and profile picture directly from the account menu.
  • This feature is being rolled out gradually and is expected to reach all users soon.
• Profile Sharing Feature:
  • Previously called “Profile Discovery,” this feature lets users manage how their profile is shared with others.

Summary

These updates reflect Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance functionality and user experience across its platforms. Gemini’s UI changes make navigation smoother, Google Docs’ templates save time and boost productivity, and Messages’ profile options offer better personalization. Keep an eye out for these features as they continue to roll out to more users.