Early Experiences and Practical Insights on Using the Gemini 'Ask This Page' Tool

At the 2024 I/O Conference, Google unveiled several new AI-driven features, most notably the “Ask This Page” functionality within its Gemini platform. This innovative tool allows users to have Gemini "read" web pages and extract specific information, creating an interactive personal assistant experience that significantly reduces the time spent searching for information.

“Ask This Page” shares similarities with other features introduced at the conference, such as “Ask This PDF” and “Ask This Video.” During the event, we had the opportunity to test “Ask This PDF” with a borrowed Pixel phone, and it performed exceptionally well. Now, we’ve had early access to “Ask This Page,” allowing us to explore its capabilities and limitations in depth.

How to Use Gemini's Ask This Page Feature

To activate “Ask This Page,” simply press and hold the power button while browsing a webpage on your Android phone, which will bring up the Gemini overlay. Gemini automatically recognizes the page you’re viewing, and you’ll see the Ask This Page icon. When you click this button, Gemini begins scanning the page—this process may vary in duration based on the complexity of the webpage. Once scanning is complete, a prompt appears stating, “Get help with content on this page.”

At this point, you can ask Gemini questions in natural language. For instance, if you're reading an article about new features in Microsoft OneNote, you could inquire whether a specific feature has been released. Gemini will provide precise answers, such as, “According to the article, the reminder feature is currently in development and has not yet been released.” This interactive capability offers users an efficient way to retrieve relevant information.

In summary, Google’s “Ask This Page” feature illustrates the transformative potential of AI in information retrieval, enhancing users' browsing experience and making the search for specific content more effective.