On November 17, 2026, Google will transition its Gemini feature known as “Gems” into a new format called “skills.” Users won’t lose the work they’ve put into creating their Gems; these custom assistants will automatically migrate to the new skills format, ensuring a hassle-free transition.
Gems, launched in 2024, enabled users to train AI for specific tasks without needing to re-enter commands. Pre-made Gems included a learning coach, a brainstorming assistant, a career guide, a coding partner, and an editor. Users could also create their own Gems, such as a running coach, nutritionist, or vacation planner. This customization aimed to make the AI app more versatile and personal.
Despite these enhancements, Google admits that the new skills system still isn’t as user-friendly as simply typing commands into a chatbot like Meta’s Muse. Instead of a straightforward interface, users will need to enter a forward slash “/” in a task thread to select the desired skill, a method that may resonate more with engineers than everyday users.
The wind-down of Gems was first reported by 9to5Google, highlighting ongoing challenges Google faces in maintaining a cohesive AI feature set. The issue of having too many branded features, each with its own identity, has long complicated the user experience.
