Google extends Gemini in Chrome and lets the agent perform tasks for users

Google expands Gemini in Chrome and is now introducing a range of new AI features that make the browser significantly more powerful. The integration allows users to have the agent read tabs, analyze browsing history, summarize content and even perform practical tasks directly in Chrome. This marks a new step in the rapidly growing competition for AI-powered browsers.

Google has announced that Gemini in Chrome will no longer require a membership fee. The feature is now rolling out to Mac and Windows users in the US. The aim is to strengthen Google's position in competition with players such as OpenAI, Anthropic and Perplexity, who are all focusing on browsers and agents with built-in AI.

New features as Google expands Gemini in Chrome

One of the most notable the news is that Google plans to let Gemini perform tasks for the user. In the coming months, the agent will be able to book hair appointments, reschedule deliveries, make restaurant reservations, and even shop for food based on shopping lists in the user's email. Google is also building in checkpoints to increase security at points that are considered high-risk or irreversible.

This step is a clear response to OpenAI which has already launched a ChatGPT agent with similar features. With Gemini in Chrome, Google wants to create a complete solution where the browser and AI agent work together without the user needing to switch tools.

Deeper connection to Google Workspace

Google is now enabling Gemini in Chrome to integrate with Google Workspace for both consumers and businesses. The feature is rolling out immediately and includes support for Calendar, YouTube, Google Maps, and several other Google services. This allows the agent to find relevant information directly from the user’s screen and take actions based on what is displayed in the browser.

According to Google, business users are a key target group for Chrome. Integration with Workspace opens up opportunities in scheduling, administration, research, document management and other workflows where users often switch between many different tools.

AI understanding across multiple tabs

Users on computer now has the ability to use Gemini to analyze multiple tabs at once. The agent can compare products, summarize complex information from different sources, and retrieve pages from the browser history. The feature means that users no longer have to leave tabs open as reminders. Instead, they can ask the agent the next day to retrieve what they were working on.

Google says this can simplify workflows where users manage many parallel tabs and projects. By automating the retrieval of information, Chrome can become a tool that saves both time and energy.

Greater context on mobile

On Android, Gemini can already be accessed directly through the operating system, but Google now allows sharing the entire page context and not just what is visible on the screen. This creates better conditions for asking more advanced questions. iPhone users will soon be able to use Gemini via Chrome the app and access the same features.

The competition for the AI-powered web

The development of AI agents in browsers has accelerated significantly in the past year. Anthropic launched its Computer Use concept that allows Claude to act directly in the browser. OpenAI then followed with Operator and the merged ChatGPT Agent. Perplexity launched its own AI-based browser Comet. Atlassian’s recent acquisition of The Browser Company for $610 million demonstrates how central AI-powered browsers have become to the tech industry.

Google's strategy is clear. By enhancing Chrome with Gemini, the company wants to maintain its leading position while creating a platform where AI work happens directly in the browser without the need for third-party tools.

A step towards more agent-driven computing

Many observers believe that these changes mark the beginning of a new type of computing experience where AI agents guide the user through workflows, research, planning and everyday tasks. By giving Gemini a deeper understanding of both tabs, screen data and user intent, Google a big step towards this future.

With these updates, Google is clearly showing how they are extending Gemini in Chrome to create a more agent-driven browser experience.