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Tag: Google

  • Google Adds AI to Workspace and Increases Pricing

    Google Adds AI to Workspace and Increases Pricing

    Google has made a big update to its Google Workspace tools. The company is now adding its advanced AI tool, Gemini, to all Business and Enterprise plans. Along with this, the prices for these plans are going up. This change shows Google’s focus on making AI a key part of its productivity tools, like Gmail, Docs, and Meet.

    Price Adjustments

    The new prices are already in effect for new customers. Existing customers will see the price changes starting March 17, 2025. Here’s the updated pricing:

    • Business Starter: $6 → $7 per user per month (annual basis)
    • Business Standard: $12 → $14 per user per month (annual basis)
    • Business Plus: $18 → $22 per user per month (annual basis)

    Google says the higher prices reflect the cost of adding AI features directly into the plans without charging extra for add-ons.

    Gemini AI Integration

    The Gemini AI tool is now included in all paid Workspace plans. Before this, users needed to buy separate AI add-ons, like Gemini Business for $20 per user per month or Gemini Enterprise for $30 per user per month. Now, these features are part of the standard subscription.

    With Gemini AI, users can:

    • Take automatic notes during Meet calls.
    • Create images in Docs and Slides.
    • Use improved tools like NotebookLM.

    Other AI-powered tasks include summarizing emails, writing assistance, and real-time transcription. Google aims to make these tools accessible without extra costs.

    Reactions and Implications

    Not everyone is happy about the changes. Some users appreciate the value of AI features for a slightly higher price. Others feel it’s unfair, especially if they don’t need the AI tools but still have to pay more.

    Social media reactions have been mixed. While some are excited about using AI in their daily work, others are frustrated about paying more for features they might not use.

    Future Outlook

    This update highlights a growing trend of AI becoming a regular part of office tools. Google’s move could push competitors, like Microsoft, to include AI in their base plans or find new ways to charge for similar features.

    Google says the added value of Gemini AI should make up for the price increase for most users. The company hopes to make AI a standard part of the workplace, not just an optional extra.

  • Google Cloud Introduces New Tools at NRF 2025 to Help Retailers Build Gen AI Search and Agents

    Google Cloud Introduces New Tools at NRF 2025 to Help Retailers Build Gen AI Search and Agents

    Google Cloud has announced a powerful set of AI tools to help retailers tackle challenges like rising costs, supply chain issues, and growing demand for personalized shopping experiences. The announcement comes just ahead of NRF 2025: Retail’s Big Show, where these tools will be showcased.

    Smarter Shopping with AI Agents

    Google Cloud’s Google Agentspace brings AI agents powered by Google’s Gemini models to the retail world. These AI agents can handle advanced reasoning and integrate with enterprise data to make shopping more efficient and personalized.

    For example, store employees can use Agentspace to quickly find product details and answer customer questions. A store worker might ask, “What are the new features of this product?” and instantly get detailed, helpful answers.

    Better Search for Online Shopping

    Google has also upgraded Vertex AI Search for Commerce with large language model (LLM) capabilities. This enhancement allows online retailers to offer smarter, more accurate search and product recommendations. Shoppers can find what they need faster, thanks to improved search relevance and personalized results.

    Boosting Product Catalogs

    Google Cloud’s new Gen AI Catalog and Content Enrichment tool uses advanced AI models like Gemini 1.5 and Imagen 3 to improve product catalogs. Retailers can now automatically generate product descriptions, tags, and images with minimal input. This means better product information, higher-quality search results, and more engaging shopping experiences.

    AI-Powered Customer Service

    A new customer service solution integrates AI-powered virtual agents into existing CRM systems. These agents can help schedule appointments, track orders, and recommend products in real-time, offering faster and more personalized customer support.

    Connected Stores and Real-Time Insights

    Google is also introducing tools like Veo and Imagen 3 to create “connected stores.” These tools can turn images into videos and provide real-time insights, improving in-store experiences and making inventory management more efficient.

    Real-Life Impact

    Retailers like Wayfair are already using Google’s AI tools. Wayfair leverages Gemini on Vertex AI to automate product tagging and categorization, helping them launch products faster and improve productivity.

    Google’s Vision for AI in Retail

    These AI tools highlight Google Cloud’s commitment to reshaping retail through technology. By offering smarter operations and personalized shopping, Google aims to create seamless and engaging experiences for both retailers and customers.

    You can see these tools in action at NRF 2025 at Google Cloud’s booth (#5507).

    About Google Cloud
    Google Cloud offers advanced AI, data, and infrastructure solutions to help organizations thrive in the digital world. With services in over 200 countries, Google Cloud supports businesses in transforming their operations with cutting-edge technology.

    Links

    https://blog.google/products/google-cloud/google-cloud-ai-retailers-nrf-2025