Google packs Search and Gemini with new AI study tools

Google on Wednesday announced a slew of new study tools across Search and Gemini, including AI-generated interactive visuals, 3D simulations, a dedicated student hub, customized practice quizzes, and more.

The launch of the new study features marks Google’s latest effort to make Gemini the AI assistant that students turn to when learning and studying, as it competes with companies like OpenAI and education startups such as Knowt and Gauth, which are also offering their own learning and practice tools.

On Search, students can now generate custom tools and simulations to help them understand complex topics. For example, if a student is learning about pH levels, they can search for “pH scale” and get an interactive visual in an AI Overview that makes the basics easier to understand.

To go even further, they can ask a follow-up question for something more specialized, like plotting citrus fruits on the pH scale, and AI Mode in Search will then create an interactive experience tailored to the question.

Users can now get customized practice quizzes directly in Search on any subject, including science, math, humanities, foreign languages, and more. For example, users can enter a prompt like, “Create a quiz with the most commonly tested vocabulary words to help me prep for the SAT,” and Search will then generate an interactive quiz.

In the coming weeks, Lens in Search will roll out a new interactive learning experience that will help students work through problems. They can tap the “Lens” camera icon in the Google app and then upload a photo of what they’re working on to get AI to explain the concept, identify potential mistakes, and provide guidance if they’re stuck.

Additionally, students can now ask Search to create study documents based on their uploaded files, including PDFs, docs, slides, and more. For example, they can upload a photo of their handwritten notes along with lecture slides to get a one-pager that outlines key concepts.

As for the new Gemini features, Google is launching a feature that lets students launch multi-step research reports in Gemini Live and then discuss the findings conversationally.

Users can ask Gemini to research a topic and then close the chat or do other things while it works in the background. They’ll get a notification when the report is ready and can then can discuss the findings or ask follow up questions using their voice.

The tech giant also announced that Gemini can now generate functional 3D simulations to help users better understand topics, as responses will now include tables, grids, and simulations made specially for the prompt. For example, if you enter a prompt like, “show me how DNA works in 3D,” you’ll be able to interactively rotate and zoom into a 3D DNA structure.

Google is also launching a dedicated hub in the Gemini app that brings its learning tools together in one place. Users will be able to start a study notebook, create flashcards, take practice quizzes, and more within the hub.