Today, Google unveiled Gemini for Workspace, a new business-focused solution that leverages Gemini Ultra 1.0, the company’s most advanced model, across Workspace applications like Docs and Meet, all while ensuring enterprise-grade data protection.
Launching today with two pricing tiers, Gemini for Workspace serves as an upgraded version of Duet AI for Workspace, which previously offered generative AI features such as "Help Me Write" in Workspace apps. This marks Google's second significant rebranding to emphasize the 'Gemini' name; the first was the renaming of its Bard chatbot to Gemini.
In addition to embedding Gemini into various applications, this rebranded offering provides Workspace users with a standalone Gemini chatbot experience designed to enhance workflows and creativity without compromising privacy or security.
This initiative strengthens Google’s competitive edge against Microsoft, which has already implemented a similar approach with its Copilot for businesses.
What to Expect from Gemini for Workspace
Aparna Pappu, GM and Vice President for Google Workspace, announced that both new and existing customers can sign up for a Gemini add-on to access the advanced AI model across Workspace apps. There are two types of add-ons: a Business add-on for small organizations and an enhanced Enterprise add-on, previously known as Duet AI for Workspace Enterprise, catering to power users with additional features.
Both plans provide access to experiences driven by Gemini 1.0 Ultra, the largest and most capable model to date, offering improved features like "Help Me Write" in Docs and Gmail, enhanced Smart Fill in Sheets, and image generation in Slides. Similar capabilities are also available for consumers through the Google One AI Premium Plan.
“Many small businesses rely on Google Workspace to connect, create, and collaborate. A recent survey revealed that 88% of SMB customers showed interest in using generative AI for tasks like data analysis and email drafting. To enhance productivity for businesses with limited resources, we’re launching the Gemini Business add-on,” Pappu stated.
The Enterprise plan offers the same capabilities but with "unfettered access to Gemini" and advanced AI meeting features, including real-time translation of captions in over 100 languages and automatic meeting notes, although the latter will be rolled out later.
Secure Chat Experience
Both plans include a standalone chat feature powered by Gemini, acting as an AI sidekick. This feature is designed to provide users with expert insights to expedite their workflows.
“For instance, a marketing manager can leverage Gemini to identify email marketing campaign topics by analyzing trends, product updates, and competitor messaging. Gemini can then assist in crafting engaging copy linked to those trends and formulate attention-grabbing subject lines,” explained Pappu.
Most critically, the Workspace experience ensures enterprise-grade data protection and copyright indemnification, maintaining privacy in all interactions.
“With Gemini Business and Enterprise plans, your conversations won't be used for advertising, reviewed by human reviewers, or utilized to train generative machine-learning technologies,” Pappu added.
Competitive Pricing Against Microsoft
Google has priced the Gemini Business add-on at $20 per user per month with an annual commitment, while the Enterprise tier is set at $30 per user per month. In comparison, Microsoft charges $30 per user per month for its GPT-4 and DALL-E driven Copilot for Microsoft 365.
This pricing strategy may enhance adoption of Google's offering, particularly among small businesses. However, it's important to note that while Microsoft provides a $20 per user per month Pro version of Copilot, it lacks the same level of enterprise-grade protections.
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