Google is expanding the capabilities of its newly integrated Gemini AI system within the browser by introducing Chat with Gemini directly into the Chrome Omnibox.
As reported by Windows Report, this latest development will introduce a convenient Chat with Gemini shortcut in the Chrome Omnibox, eliminating the need for users to navigate to the Gemini website separately. The Omnibox, which functions as both an address bar and a search bar, will now offer quick access to Google’s AI chatbot with a simple @ prompt. Users can leverage this feature to seek answers, generate images, create summaries, and perform various other tasks seamlessly.
Currently undergoing testing at the Canary level, the Chat with Gemini for Chrome Omnibox can be manually enabled using the following steps:
- Launch Google Chrome.
- Enter chrome://flags in the Chrome Omnibox.
- Locate Expansion pack for the Site Search starter pack.
- Enable the feature.
- Restart the browser.
- Navigate to chrome://settings/searchEngines in the address bar.
- Take note of the Chat with Gemini shortcut listed under Site Search.
- Simply type the @ symbol in a new tab to reveal the Gemini shortcut along with other Omnibox shortcuts like search tabs, history, and bookmarks.
- Select the Gemini shortcut.
- Input your query and press Enter to be directed to the Gemini website.
Although the current Canary test for Chat with Gemini in the Chrome Omnibox necessitates manual installation, a wider public release could potentially integrate this feature seamlessly into the Chrome browser through a system update.
Google’s deployment of its AI technology has been gradual in the past year, but with the consolidation under the unified Gemini brand, the pace of product launches is expected to accelerate. The introduction of Google One AI Premium services, featuring Gemini Advanced, a premium tier powered by the latest large language model Ultra 1.0, signifies Google’s commitment to enhancing its AI capabilities. This premium service is complemented by productivity tools and an upgraded storage plan.
It is worth noting that other browser competitors have already integrated AI chatbots into their platforms. Microsoft, for instance, collaborates with OpenAI to offer the Copilot chatbot in its Edge browser. Opera, another browser company, incorporates AI features in its various browser options, such as Opera One and Opera GX, leveraging its proprietary AI system named Aria and integrating models like ChatGPT for enhanced user experience.
