Google for India, which held its 10th annual edition on Thursday, was marked by the announcement of several India-specific updates, emphasising its focus on AI and localised services. Celebrating 20 years of operations in the country, Google introduced major advancements aimed at making its platforms more accessible and useful for Indian users.
Gemini Now In Hindi
A key highlight was the expansion of Google’s AI model, Gemini. Already available in English, Gemini Live has now rolled out support for Hindi, with plans to add eight more Indian languages soon. Additionally, Google AI Overview, previously available in Hindi, now supports Bengali, Telugu, and Marathi, broadening its reach across India’s linguistic landscape.
Google Maps To Show Fog Alerts
In a bid to improve real-time navigation, Google Maps has introduced two new features for Indian users: alerts for fog and flood conditions on the roads, helping users make informed decisions while travelling.
AI For Health
Google is also leveraging AI for healthcare, working with Indian hospitals to provide free screenings for cancer and tuberculosis over the next decade. These efforts aim to enhance healthcare outcomes across the country.
UPI Circle on GPay
On the payments front, Google Pay now supports UPI Circle, a feature allowing users to request payments on behalf of others — like parents paying for a child’s purchases. Additionally, loan limits have been expanded to Rs 5 lakh, and users can now apply for Gold loans up to Rs 50 lakh via the platform.
Google For India: Other Top Announcements
Merchants also benefit from new tools, with the option to include their WhatsApp contact in their Google business profiles, making customer interactions more convenient. This feature is rolling out first in India.
Google’s commitment to AI education is evident through the launch of AI Skills House, a learning platform aimed at training students, educators, and professionals. The courses will eventually be available in seven Indian languages, targeting over 10 million learners.
Furthering its corporate responsibility, Google announced a $4 million initiative through Google.org to enhance education in India. The company is also expanding its carbon-free energy goals, adding 186 MW of clean energy to the Indian grid and partnering with the Adani Group to establish a solar farm in Gujarat.
As part of its ongoing efforts to bolster cybersecurity, Google will roll out the Safety Engineering System in India by 2025, building on its anti-fraud DigiKavach service introduced last year.
The Google for India 2024 event showcased the company’s commitment to driving digital innovation, addressing local needs, and deepening its presence in India’s technological landscape.