Introduction
Google is now spreading its AI assistant, Gemini, beyond the solo app. The new Gems feature, which integrates directly into the side panel of Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Drive, Slides, and Google Drive, allows users to get task-specific AI assistants without leaving their workspace. Here’s how this improvement will increase productivity.
What Are the “Gems” of Gemini?
Gems are lightweight, targeted AI helpers based on Gemini that can handle tasks such as writing, brainstorming, summarizing, and coding. Some are pre-made (e.g., Writing Editor, Brainstormer, Learning Coach), but users can also construct unique Gems to fit their individual workflows.
Integrated Workspace Workflows
You may now use Gems without changing apps. When the side panel is open, search for the “Ask Gemini” spark icon and choose a pre-made Gem or activate your unique one. It enables file access, @mentioning, and document context, making it appropriate for jobs such as:
Creating emails with auto-reply ideas in Gmail
Summarizing Long Documents in Docs
Data activities in spreadsheets, such as formulas or charts
Sales pitch creation or brand writing in slides
Real Use Cases
Copywriting: Create on-brand material.
Coding Partner: Create or debug code snippets.
Sales Tools: Develop pitches with business-specific context.
Learning Coach: Study summaries or explanation prompts
Business Automation: Integrated in Workspace Flows for automating chores (e.g., triaging support forms and generating responses)
Who Will Get It and When Will It Be Available?
Available on July 2, 2025, by quick and scheduled releases.
Users using Gemini in Workspace or Google One AI Premium will see the upgrade.
Supported by Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Drive, Slides, and Drive on web.
There are no administrative controls—users simply click “Ask Gemini” to launch the side panel.
Benefits and Limitations
Benefits:
- Context-aware assistance without app switching.
- Customizable task-specific AI assistants
- Pre-made templates for common tasks.
Limitations:
- Still at the experimental stage; some outcomes may appear generic.
- Limited rollout to Workspace subscribers.
- Advanced features, such as Flows and multi-step automations, may require higher-tier plans.
Final Verdict
Google’s Gems integration is a huge step in embedding AI workflows into common tools. If you’re a busy writer, analyst, student, or customer-facing professional, these AI tools can save you time and mental energy.
🔍 Are you interested in exploring? Simply click “Ask Gemini” in your Workspace applications and select a Gem—or construct your own at gemini.google.com/gems/create.