Google Gemini AI Adds New Features for Polishing Emails

Google has announced updates to its Gemini artificial intelligence writing tools, specifically enhancing the Help Me Write feature for email drafting. Previously, users could generate emails using AI, but the latest adjustments allow for more nuanced modifications. Users can now select options such as Formalize, Elaborate, Shorten, and a new Polish feature, which refines messages and can transform rough notes into polished drafts for review. This functionality is accessible on both web and mobile platforms, with the Help Me Write shortcut integrated directly into the email body. To utilize these features, users need to have at least 12 words in their draft to see the Refine My Draft shortcut. The options are enabled by default for eligible customers, making it easier to tailor messages for various contexts. However, Google advises caution, suggesting that while AI-generated content may be suitable for business communications, personal messages should retain a human touch. The company recently faced criticism for a television advertisement aired during the Paris Olympics, which featured a father claiming his daughter used AI to write a letter to an Olympic athlete. Critics argued that this undermined the authenticity and charm of children's heartfelt expressions. CNET's Connie Guglielmo labeled the ad a "massive parental fail," emphasizing the value of genuine, imperfect letters from children. Following the backlash, Google decided to withdraw the ad from its Olympic campaign.