Gemini
Ambient AI across Google. Search, Chrome, Photos. You don't switch to it. It's already there.
What I use it for
Pricing
Free tier; Advanced at $20/mo with Google One.
Where it shines
- AI Search mode synthesizes answers. It's become the default way I search.
- Google Photos integration is strong. Natural language to find and organize images.
- No context-switching. The AI is embedded where you already are. That's the strategy.
Where it struggles
- Chrome browser automations are improving. Still not as capable as Claude's computer use.
- Gemini in IDE is functional. I reach for Codex and Claude Code for real coding.
Notes
Gemini's strength: it's embedded, not standalone. You don't switch to Gemini. It's already in Search, Photos, Chrome. Browser history shows 17 days active, 63 visits. No spending signal — free tier. Says a lot about Google's strategy of making AI ambient rather than premium.
How to try it
Just use Google. AI Search mode is the gateway. Then try searching your Photos with natural language. That's the pitch — you're already using it.
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