Gemini Live Revolutionizes Conversational AI with Visual Capabilities – My Experience
Exploring Google’s Gemini Live Feature
Introduction to Gemini Live
Recently, I took a tour of my apartment using my phone while interacting with Google’s Gemini Live. This innovative artificial intelligence tool allows users to converse casually while identifying various objects through the camera. For example, I asked Gemini to find a pair of scissors, and it accurately pointed them out next to a package of pistachios. Its ability to pinpoint everyday items was quite impressive.
Apart from identifying household objects, Gemini Live can assist with more complex tasks. Google claims it will help you navigate busy train stations or determine the filling of a pastry. Additionally, it provides in-depth information about artwork, like its origins and edition details.
How Gemini Live Works
Gemini Live goes beyond the basic functionality of Google Lens. What sets it apart is that users can have a casual conversation with the AI. There’s no need for technical language or specific commands – the dialogue can be as simple as talking to a friend. Compared to the older Google Assistant, this is a significant upgrade.
Currently, Gemini Live is being rolled out for Pixel 9 and Galaxy S25 phones, and it’s available for free on these devices. Other Pixel phone users can access it through a Google AI Premium subscription. Google has also released a promotional video to showcase this feature.
To get started with Gemini Live, simply enable the camera and start speaking.
Practical Tests with Gemini Live
I received access to Gemini Live on my Pixel 9 Pro a few days ahead of its official release, allowing me to test its capabilities. On my first attempt, it identified a specific plush toy remarkably well. The real challenge came when I visited an art gallery. There, Gemini not only recognized an artwork but also translated kanji characters nearby, which left both me and my friend impressed.
Throughout my apartment test, I followed a demo from Google, pointing my camera at various items, such as fruit and books. Gemini was adept at identifying most of them, but I wanted to push its limits further.
Stress Testing Gemini Live
When I wanted to see how it performed under stress, I recorded my session, but the software struggled with that task. A true test of its capabilities arose with my horror-themed collectibles. These items, while familiar to me, were not mainstream, and I wondered how well Gemini could recognize them.
Interestingly, Gemini could be remarkably accurate or frustratingly off-target during the same session. For instance, it nailed one object as a limited edition from a year’s event in the game Destiny 2. At other times, it incorrectly guessed items or merged different collectibles into fictional characters that do not exist.
Results From My Testing
Gemini proved its worth with some targets while struggling with others. Here’s a summary of my experiences:
- Speed and Accuracy: Gemini quickly recognized mainstream objects or trends but faltered when faced with more obscure collectibles.
- Helpful Nudges: I found that providing hints sometimes helped Gemini narrow down answers, though it was not always successful.
- Contextual Issues: Occasionally, Gemini appeared to remember previous interactions, which led to confusion and incorrect answers based on old data.
Object Identification Examples
Here are a few examples of objects I tested:
- Silent Hill Figures: For a specific figure from Silent Hill, Gemini initially gave incorrect names but eventually identified it after several hints.
- Artwork: The recognition of artwork, like the Log Lady from Twin Peaks, showcased its ability to identify based on visual cues and context.
- Horror Collectibles: While some collectibles like Twin Victim from Silent Hill 4 were identified correctly, others required more engagement with the feature.
Overall Impressions of Gemini Live
While Gemini Live was at times inconsistent, the technology it represents shows vast potential for enhancing everyday interactions. It merges our physical and digital worlds seamlessly, enabling a different kind of experience when we look at everyday objects. As AI continues to evolve, the interaction we have with devices will likely change significantly, making tools like Gemini Live an exciting development to follow.
Trying out Gemini’s features not only showcased its functionalities but also highlighted areas for improvement, making it a blend of innovative and challenging technology.
