Google CEO Sundar Pichai Introduces Canvas, a New Coding Feature for Gemini Inspired by OpenAI
Google Introduces New Features for Gemini Chatbot
Following OpenAI’s release of its Canvas tool for ChatGPT in October, Google has unveiled exciting new features for its AI-driven Gemini chatbot. On Tuesday, Google announced the launch of Canvas and Audio Overview, two tools designed to enhance user creativity and collaboration on writing and coding projects.
Competitive Naming in AI Development
Interestingly, this isn’t the first instance of these features appearing in the tech landscape, nor is it solely about technological innovation. Google’s introduction of Canvas and Audio Overview comes just after OpenAI’s similar developments, showcasing the competitive naming trend in the AI domain. A notable example includes Google’s AI tool named Deep Research, which was launched in December. Shortly after, OpenAI unveiled a tool with the same name in February 2025, indicating a fierce race not only in AI capabilities but also in branding.
Understanding Google Gemini’s Canvas Tool
The Canvas feature in Google Gemini provides an interactive space where users can effortlessly draft, revise, and share their writing and coding projects. Users can access Canvas via the prompt bar in the Gemini application, whether they are on a web browser or a mobile device. This feature allows for content refining in various ways, including adjustments in tone, length, and style. Users can easily highlight sections of text and prompt Gemini to revise the writing to be more concise, formal, or relaxed according to their requirements.
Collaboration Made Easy
One of the major benefits of Canvas is its collaboration capabilities, as completed projects can be exported directly to Google Docs with just one click. This streamlines the workflow for users who regularly work with documents.
Google explains, "Within Canvas, you can generate and preview your HTML/React code and other web app prototypes to see a visual representation of your design." For example, if a user wants to create an email subscription form for a website, they can request Gemini to generate the necessary HTML. They would then be able to preview how the form will look and function in real-time, making it easy to request changes or additions like input fields or call-to-action buttons.
With its simplified approach to coding, Canvas allows users to focus on the creative aspects of their projects without the hassle of navigating between different applications. This tool is currently rolling out to Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers worldwide, supporting all languages compatible with the Gemini app.
Audio Overview: Bringing Text to Life
In addition to Canvas, Google has introduced the Audio Overview feature, which enhances the way users can consume written materials. Building on the Audio Overview capabilities of NotebookLM, this new feature transforms written documents into engaging, podcast-style audio discussions between AI hosts.
To use Audio Overview, users simply upload a document via the prompt bar and receive an audio summary, which can be downloaded or shared through the Gemini app. This feature aims to provide a convenient way to absorb information while on the move. Currently, it supports various file formats and is primarily available in English, with plans for other languages in the future.
Google emphasizes that "Audio Overview enhances learning in a fun and productive way." Users can upload various documents, including class notes, research papers, and long email threads, to generate a useful audio summary. This feature can be accessed on both the web and mobile versions of the Gemini app, allowing for easy sharing and listening options.
With these new features, Google aims to further empower users in their creative and collaborative endeavors. The rollout of Canvas and Audio Overview is set to enhance the functionality of the Gemini platform, providing an effective blend of writing, coding, and audio tools.
