Google announces slew of AI advances – NBC Bay Area

Google announces slew of AI advances – NBC Bay Area

Google announces slew of AI advances – NBC Bay Area

https://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/google-ai-advances/4086990/

Publish Date: 2026-05-20 13:26:00

Source Domain: www.nbcbayarea.com

  • Google’s I/O conference focused heavily on introducing new AI-powered tools and systems, highlighting the ongoing emphasis on “agentic” AI.
  • The key announcement is Gemini Spark, an AI assistant designed to proactively perform tasks for users, currently in beta test with plans to roll out in Chrome later this summer.
  • Gemini 3.5, the latest model in Google’s AI family, has seen significant user growth and is faster, with enhanced model safety features.
  • New Gemini Omni models allow users to create and edit high-quality videos and images using text, images, videos, and audio inputs.
  • The introduction of SynthID, a digital watermark, and content credentials verification tools are part of Google’s measures to combat misinformation and track the origin of AI-generated content.
  • Google also showcased its upcoming smart glasses, including audio and display versions aimed at providing real-time assistance through spoken and visual help.
  • Gemini 3.5 is now the default model for AI mode in Google Search, alongside new features like an intelligent search box and the Universal Cart tool for smarter shopping experiences.