Google has upgraded its AI assistant, Gemini, by introducing customizable chatbots called “Gems” directly into popular Workspace apps, including Google Docs, Drive, Gmail, Sheets, and Slides. This integration enables users to access expert AI helpers directly within the app, enhancing productivity and reducing repetitive prompts.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Since last year, Gemini’s Gems have been available on the standalone Gemini app and website. Now, Google embeds these custom chatbots in the side panels of Workspace apps. Users can create personalized Gems that handle specific tasks or roles — such as editing, writing, brainstorming ideas, or offering career advice—and then use them seamlessly while working.
Each Gem can be tailored with instructions about tone, expertise, or purpose, plus linked to reference files. For instance, a copywriting Gem might generate content targeted at a precise audience. A sales Gem could support client interactions with company-specific data. Users can also build assistant Gems tuned to their job function, improving summaries and internal communications.
The default Gems include Coding Partner, Brainstormer, Career Guide, and Learning Coach, ready to assist different user needs. Google says Gems can interact with Workspace features, such as @mentions, and access files and folders, thereby enhancing collaboration.
Creating new Gems requires visiting the Gemini website, but once set up, they appear in Workspace apps’ side panels for easy use. The rollout began on July 2, 2025, and is expected to reach users within a couple of weeks. Availability requires a Google Workspace Standard plan or higher, as well as access to Gemini features.
This move helps Google enhance Workspace’s AI capabilities, enabling professionals and teams to deeply customize AI assistance that is deeply embedded in their workflows. It aligns with the rising demand for tailored AI that adapts to specific tasks rather than one-size-fits-all bots.
TF Summary: What’s Next
Google’s Gemini Gems in Workspace apps is an important AI integration, making assistance more accessible and personalized. As users customize Gems for diverse needs, expect AI to play an increasingly vital role in daily productivity.
Future updates may bring broader Workspace AI integrations, smarter Gems, and more intuitive customization tools, solidifying Google’s lead in AI-powered workplace software.
— Text-to-Speech (TTS) provided by gspeech