From Bard to Gemini: Why Google Evolved Its AI Model’s Name

Pawan Kumar
2 min readFeb 10, 2024

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In early 2024, Google made a notable shift in its large language model (LLM) landscape, rebranding “Bard” to “Gemini.” This seemingly simple name change sparked curiosity and questions among users and enthusiasts alike. So, what’s behind Google’s decision to move from Bard to Gemini? Here’s a breakdown of the key factors:

1. Unified Branding: As Google’s AI ambitions continue to expand, they’re streamlining their identity. Bard wasn’t just an individual model; it represented a family of AI tools powering various Google products. By bringing them under the “Gemini” umbrella, Google establishes a single, recognizable brand for its LLMs, similar to how “Tensor” represents their AI chips.

2. Enhanced Accessibility: While “Bard” evokes a literary and historical theme, “Gemini” boasts broader appeal. This shift reflects Google’s commitment to making its AI technology accessible to a wider audience. The simpler, more universal name avoids potential cultural or linguistic barriers, ensuring everyone can easily engage with their AI innovations.

3. Reflecting Capabilities: The name “Gemini” carries more than just branding significance. It symbolizes the model’s dual nature — the ability to be both creative and informative. Think of it as twins with distinct yet complementary strengths. As Gemini can generate various creative text formats (poems, scripts, code) and deliver comprehensive answers to your questions, the name aptly reflects its diverse skillset.

4. Future-Proofing: While the Bard name served well initially, it might not have adequately scaled with Google’s evolving vision. “Gemini,” with its association with adaptability and duality, suggests the model’s capacity to grow and acquire new capabilities in the future, aligning with Google’s long-term AI roadmap.

Beyond the Name:

It’s important to remember that the name change is just one aspect of Google’s ongoing LLMs development. They remain focused on enhancing the models’ functionalities, expanding accessibility, and exploring ethical considerations in AI development.

The Conclusion:

The transition from Bard to Gemini signifies more than a new name. It underscores Google’s commitment to building comprehensive, accessible, and adaptable AI models while establishing a unified brand identity for their future endeavors. As AI technology continues to evolve, Gemini stands as a symbol of Google’s vision for a diverse and inclusive future powered by artificial intelligence.

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