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Browser competition escalates as Google incorporates Gemini into Google Chrome

Google is integrating its AI-focused browser, Gemini, into Chrome starting in the U.S., making it available for all users, regardless of whether they have an account or not. Thus, Chrome will transition into an AI browser.

Browser competition intensifies: Google incorporates Gemini into Google Chrome
Browser competition intensifies: Google incorporates Gemini into Google Chrome

Browser competition escalates as Google incorporates Gemini into Google Chrome

Google's latest innovation, Gemini for Chrome, is set to revolutionise the way we browse the web. This new browser extension boasts agentic capabilities, enabling it to perform tasks like placing orders in a supermarket without the need for web links.

The integration of Google's chatbot, Gemini, within the Chrome browser is currently available only in the United States, and is planned to work on mobile devices in the future. This chatbot can summarise information from open tabs and access Google Calendar and Docs, making multitasking more efficient.

However, this integration has sparked concerns. Alliances in Germany and the EU Commission are urging investigations into Google's behaviour, with accusations of anti-competitive practices, particularly regarding the integration of AI capabilities into its browser.

Google's rivals are also joining the fray. OpenAI and Perplexity are developing their own browsers, aiming to keep users within their respective ecosystems when accessing linked websites.

Google emphasises that the integration aims to make the web better and the browser smarter. By recognising scams and other security risks, it promises to make browsing safer. In fact, Chrome users on Android devices already receive three million warnings per day about harmful websites thanks to AI.

This integration represents a fundamental change in the nature of browsing. Web links may not be necessary in Gemini for Chrome, as it can draw all the information from sources. This could potentially streamline the browsing experience, but raises questions about user privacy and data control.

As the integration of AI capabilities becomes more prevalent in our daily lives, it is crucial to maintain a balance between innovation and fair competition. The digital landscape is evolving, and it is up to us to navigate these changes responsibly.

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