Google has unveiled what it calls “the biggest upgrade in Chrome’s history,” announcing a deep integration of its Gemini AI directly into the web browser. In a parallel move to enhance user control over content, the company also rolled out a significant update to its Discover feed, allowing users to follow their favorite publishers and creators.
The Gemini Revolution in Chrome
In an initial rollout for English-language users on Mac and Windows in the United States, Chrome will feature a new Gemini button. This integration allows the AI to perform a variety of tasks directly within the browser, fundamentally changing how users interact with web content. For instance, if a user wants a quick summary of a long article or needs to organize information from multiple open tabs, they can now ask Gemini to generate a concise overview.
The AI can also answer specific questions about the content on a webpage. This could range from clarifying points in a news report to comparing a product with its competitors, outlining its pros and cons. The functionality extends to multimedia as well, with Gemini being able to pinpoint specific moments or topics within a YouTube video based on a user’s query.
Future Capabilities and Deeper Integration
Looking ahead, Google plans to introduce advanced agent-like capabilities to Gemini in Chrome over the next few months. This feature will empower the AI to handle repetitive and tedious online tasks on behalf of the user. With a simple command, Gemini could manage tasks like booking a salon appointment or placing a weekly grocery order by navigating and filling out information on websites automatically, with users having the ability to stop the process at any time.
The AI’s ability to work across multiple tabs promises to streamline complex planning. For example, a user organizing a trip with separate tabs for flights, hotels, and tourist attractions can have Gemini consolidate all the information into a single, cohesive itinerary. Furthermore, Gemini will be integrated with browsing history, enabling users to find previously visited sites with natural language prompts like, “What was that site with the walnut desk I saw last week?”
Integration with other Google apps is also being enhanced. Users will be able to schedule meetings in Google Calendar, look up locations in Maps, or find a specific clip in a YouTube video without ever leaving their current tab.
AI-Powered Security and Productivity
The Chrome address bar, or Omnibox, will now provide quick access to an “AI mode” for Google Search, designed to handle longer and more complex questions. This feature is currently available for US English users and is slated for a wider international release in the coming weeks.
On the security front, AI is being leveraged to make browsing safer. The Enhanced Safe Browsing mode already uses Gemini Nano to detect and block technical support scams that trick users into downloading malicious software. Google is expanding this protection to block sites that use deceptive tactics like fake virus warnings or phony prize giveaways.
Password management is also getting an AI boost. For supported sites like Coursera, Spotify, and Duolingo, Chrome’s built-in password manager will now offer a one-click option to change a saved password, simplifying a crucial security practice.
Personalizing Your Content Feed with Google Discover
Alongside the Chrome updates, Google announced a major enhancement to its Discover feature—the personalized feed that appears on the Android home screen and in the Google app. Previously driven entirely by algorithms that analyzed a user’s search history and interests, Discover now gives users direct control over their content.
A new “Follow” feature allows users to subscribe to their favorite media outlets and content creators. By explicitly telling Google, “I want to see more from ZDNET,” for example, users can ensure that content from their preferred sources is prioritized in their feed. This update marks a significant shift from a passive, algorithm-dictated experience to a more active, user-curated one. Currently, the follow functionality is available within the Google app on both Android and iOS, and since the preferences are tied to a user’s Google account, the personalized feed remains consistent across all devices.
