Google recently released an update to its Maps platform that includes some notable improvements for Bard as well as new generative AI capabilities. One major improvement is the incorporation of Google's most recent multimodal AI model, Gemini Pro, into Bard in all languages and regions that are available. Gemini Pro was previously only available in English. With its integration, Bard now has advanced capabilities that include comprehension, reasoning, summarization, and coding. This expansion guarantees a more inclusive and rich experience for Bard users worldwide.
The most notable update is Bard's newfound ability to generate images, a service that is now available in English and accessible in "most countries around the world." What makes this feature unique is that it is free for users to use. Google's state-of-the-art Imagen 2 model powers the image generation capability, which strikes a balance between quality and speed to produce high-quality and photorealistic results.
The process of using Bard's image generation is as easy as giving a brief description. Once Bard receives the input, it creates unique and varied visuals to represent the concept. Bard uses SynthID to create watermarks that are digitally identifiable and are embedded within the generated images' pixels, indicating that the images are artificial intelligence (AI) generated.
Users will find it noteworthy that Bard's responses can now be cross-referenced with over 40 languages' worth of Google search results. By selecting the G icon, users can determine whether any web content supports Bard's response. This feature increases user engagement by offering highlighted phrases and the chance to investigate further information about supporting or contradicting information found through Google search.
All things considered, these Bard updates demonstrate Google's dedication to developing AI capabilities and offering users improved features, such as improved cross-referencing with Google search results and free AI image generation. These additions are meant to increase the accessibility and usefulness of AI for a worldwide user base.