Google Gemini 1.5 Flash Brings Faster and Smarter Responses to Free Users

Google is upgrading the free version of its Gemini chatbot with a faster and smarter 1.5 Flash model today. Along with this Gemini update, the company is also expanding the availability of Gemini in Google Messages, as well as Gemini for teens.

Google Gemini 1.5 Flash is now available in over 230 countries and more than 40 languages. Google said that the new model should deliver “noticeable improvements in reasoning and image understanding.” Free users will also be able to have longer conversations with the chatbot.

In some countries, Gemini will also start showing links to additional information in its responses to English language prompts. “In addition to related content links, Gemini’s double-check feature verifies responses by using Google Search to highlight which statements are corroborated or contradicted on the web,” the company explained today.

Google Gemini will also soon let free users upload local files or Google Drive files in their prompts and ask the chatbot to analyze them or create content using their information. This feature currently requires Gemini Advanced, which is part of the $19.99/month Google One AI Premium paid plan.

Starting today, the integration of Gemini in Google Messages is rolling out in the European Economic Area (EEA), the UK, and Switzerland. Gemini for teens, which provides a tailored experience for teenagers who meet the minimum age requirements to manage their own Google account will also start rolling out globally in the coming weeks.