Google’s AI chatbot, formerly known as Bard but recently renamed as Gemini, is facing some challenges. The updated version comes with a more polished UI, image generation, and even a paid version that provides access to a smarter and more capable model. While Google is considering Gemini as a potential replacement for Google Assistant, it is not yet ready for that role.
However, users trying out the new Gemini chatbot have taken to platforms like Reddit to express their concerns. Some of the issues reported are rather strange and don’t seem to have affected the previous Bard chatbot or Google Assistant. For example, some users have complained that Gemini occasionally switches languages mid-sentence, going from English to Russian or Thai and then back to English. Others have pointed out that Gemini’s restrictions are excessive, as it refuses to comply with certain harmless requests that previous chatbots, including Bard, could handle. These restrictions can be frustrating and disrupt users’ workflow. One user even complained that Gemini is unable to perform a basic function like proofreading text, which is a feature available in other chatbots.
Many of the issues arise from the fact that users are using Gemini as a replacement for the reliable Google Assistant. However, attempting to perform the same tasks as before may not produce the same results. For instance, one user reported that Gemini struggled to understand and execute Assistant’s pre-existing routines.
While AI certainly holds promise for the future, it still requires further refinement and improvement before it can fully replace the technology we rely on daily. It is disappointing to see a Google update that seems to be a step back rather than an improvement. However, it is important to note that the initial version of Bard also had its share of problems, leaving room for Google to address the issues and make necessary improvements moving forward.
In conclusion, Google’s new Gemini AI chatbot has encountered various issues and limitations, causing frustration among users who expected a smoother and more capable assistant. Google will need to invest additional work to enhance its functionality and address the concerns raised by users. Though AI is undoubtedly a technology of the future, it is evident that there is still significant room for improvement.