Google has introduced a new artificial intelligence (AI) assistant called Gemini 3.1 into its Chrome browser for users in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.
The update, announced this week, allows people to ask questions and complete tasks directly within their web browser. Instead of opening many tabs or typing exact search terms, users can now click a star icon and chat with the AI assistant. The tool works across services like Search, YouTube, Maps and Gmail, making browsing quicker and simpler.
The new system changes how people find information online. In the past, users needed to carefully choose the right words to get useful results. Now, Gemini can understand natural language, meaning people can ask long or detailed questions just as they would speak. It can also understand what is on the screen, so when a user says “Explain this,” the AI knows what they are looking at. This makes searching feel more like having a conversation than using a machine.
Gemini can also complete a variety of tasks by combining information from different sources. For example, it can read a long article, watch a video and look at images all at once to give a clear answer. It can help plan trips by comparing travel options and creating schedules based on personal preferences. It can even redesign images, such as changing the style of a room while keeping certain items the same. Users can also write emails or set calendar events without leaving the page they are on.
However, the AI assistant has some limits. It cannot fully replace the internet or carry out complex actions like booking flights by itself. Some features will be added slowly over time, and certain modes, such as private browsing, are still limited. There are also safety rules in place to stop harmful or sensitive questions, especially about health or scams.
