Snapchat Integrates Google’s Gemini to Enhance Its Chatbot with Generative AI Capabilities

Snapchat has expanded its partnership with Google Cloud to enhance the generative AI capabilities of its My AI chatbot. This upgraded chatbot will utilize the advanced multimodal features of Google’s Gemini AI, enabling it to interpret various forms of content, including text, audio, images, and videos.

Gemini is the driving force behind new Google Lens-like functionalities that Snapchat introduced during its recent Snap Partner Summit. For instance, users can now instruct My AI to translate a street sign from a photo taken abroad or help identify the healthiest options on a menu.

Originally launched in February 2023, My AI relied on OpenAI’s ChatGPT for its foundational technology. With this latest partnership, Snapchat is integrating Google’s generative AI models, enhancing the chatbot's ability to handle not just text but also images and videos.

Following the integration of Gemini into My AI, Google reported that engagement with the chatbot surged by more than 2.5 times among users in the United States. “This partnership with Google Cloud underscores our commitment to serving our community,” said Snap CEO Evan Spiegel in a press release. “Snap is dedicated to empowering individuals to express themselves, stay present, explore the world, and enjoy shared experiences. With Gemini in My AI, Snapchatters can discover more about their surroundings swiftly and easily share insights with friends.”

This announcement solidifies a collaboration between Snap and Google Cloud that has spanned over a decade. While Snap's investment in innovative AI features aligns with industry trends, there are emerging concerns regarding potential risks associated with My AI, particularly for younger users. The smarter the chatbot becomes, the greater the need for vigilant safety measures to protect its users.