Why Google Chose "Gemini" for its AI Model

Google this month shed light on the reasoning behind the name "Gemini" for its advanced AI model, rather than Bard, a name that might be familiar to some. This explanation comes a year after Gemini's debut at Google I/O 2023. The model is now incorporated into various Google products like Search, Ads, Workspace, and Pixel.

While some might expect a name like "Bard," referencing poets or storytellers, Google opted for "Gemini" for several reasons:

Collaboration: The name "Gemini" signifies the collaboration between two previously independent Google teams. DeepMind and Brain Team (Google Research) merged in April 2023 to form Google DeepMind, aiming to accelerate AI advancements. The "twins" aspect of Gemini reflects this successful merging of expertise.

Adaptability: Drawing from the Gemini zodiac sign's "dual-natured personality," the name reflects the model's ability to adapt to diverse tasks and situations. This versatility is crucial for a powerful AI model like Gemini.

Space Exploration Analogy: The name also draws inspiration from NASA's Project Gemini (1965-1968), a critical stepping stone between the Mercury and Apollo missions. Project Gemini's focus on testing technologies for extended space missions resonated with the team developing the ambitious Gemini AI model.

The selection process

Initial Placeholder: The project initially had the placeholder name "Titan," referring to Saturn's largest moon. While not a favorite, it sparked the idea of a space-themed name.

Team Input: Jeff Dean, Gemini's co-technical lead, proposed "Gemini" within a collaborative document. The team embraced the name due to its connection to collaboration and space exploration.

While "Bard" might seem like a fitting name for a powerful language model, Google chose "Gemini" to represent the collaborative effort behind the project, the model's versatility, and the team's aspirations for its future impact.

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