Google brings custom AI ‘Gems’ to Docs, Gmail, and more

Google is rolling out its customisable AI assistant “Gems” directly into the side panel of Workspace apps like Docs, Slides, Sheets, Drive, and Gmail. The idea is to eliminate the need to open the standalone Gemini app. The move lets users tap into task-specific versions of Gemini within their workflow, making it easier to summon AI help without switching tabs.

Previously confined to the Gemini app, Gems are personalised or pre-built chatbots designed to assist with recurring tasks—such as writing brand-specific content, exam prep, or pressure-testing emails from the perspective of a CEO. Users can upload documents to give their Gems better context, or rely on Google’s pre-made versions tailored for coding, editing, sales, and more.

For example, a marketing professional can use a copywriting Gem pre-loaded with their brand voice, while a salesperson might create a Gem grounded in client or industry specifics. Internal comms teams can build an assistant Gem tailored to their role for summarising documents or drafting messages. There’s even a persona-based Gem that critiques content through the eyes of leadership.

Users can’t create Gems directly within Workspace apps, but the side panel includes a link to build one at gemini.google.com/gems/create. Once created, Gems support Workspace-native functions like @-mentions and file access.