Google has unveiled an update to its Gemini AI platform, introducing an experimental “reasoning” model called Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking. This model explains its thought process before answering complex questions. The update is part of the broader Gemini 2.0 release, which also includes the flagship Gemini 2.0 Pro model.
New Features in Gemini 2.0
First introduced in December 2024, Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking aims to compete with reasoning AI models like OpenAI’s o1 and DeepSeek’s R1. According to The Verge, the system breaks down problems into smaller steps before providing a solution. This approach is designed to improve accuracy, though responses may take slightly longer.
The update is available on both desktop and mobile. Users can select Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking in the app via a drop-down list. Additionally, the update integrates AI features into other Google services, such as YouTube, Search, and Google Maps.
Enhanced Performance and Future Plans
Alongside Flash Thinking, Google has released an experimental version of Gemini 2.0 Pro. This model is said to offer higher accuracy and improved capabilities in programming and mathematics. Described as the “most powerful model” in the Gemini lineup, it is available to Advanced Gemini plan subscribers and users of Vertex AI and AI Studio.
A budget-friendly option, Gemini 2.0 Flash-Lite, has also been introduced, adds NIX Solutions. It retains the speed and cost-efficiency of its predecessor (version 1.5 Flash) while delivering better test results. Flash-Lite is accessible in public testing via AI Studio and Vertex AI.
Given the intense competition with companies like OpenAI, Microsoft, Meta, and Anthropic, Google continues to invest heavily in AI development. The company plans to allocate $75 billion to AI in 2025, more than doubling its 2023 investment of $32.3 billion. The Gemini 2.0 update is a key part of this strategy.
We’ll keep you updated as Google expands its AI capabilities and rolls out new features.