Google is set to unveil a new large language model (LLM) called PaLM 2 at its upcoming I/O event, according to a CNBC report. PaLM 2 is described as a “general-use” LLM and Google’s “most recent and advanced”. According to the report, the LLM underwent coding and math tests, as well as creative writing tests. Google is also expected to announce “generative experiences” for search and its AI-powered chatbot Bard, which launched as an experiment in March. The company is said to be expanding Bard to Japanese and Korean languages and will also reveal more AI tools for Workspace, including “discussing template generation in Sheets and image generation in its Slides and Meet products”. AI features for Gmail and Docs were previously announced by Google in March, but they were only released to “trusted testers” at the time. It remains to be seen if these new features will be widely available.
Google has recently made massive organizational shifts to further push its AI work, and I/O is expected to be a showcase for the company’s AI capabilities. The company has been putting AI front and centre with almost everything it does, with OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s own aggressive AI efforts providing stiff competition.
However, the event won’t be solely focused on AI. Google has already announced the Pixel Fold and has promised to share more about it at the event. Additionally, a now-removed Amazon listing revealed a slate of details about the Pixel Tablet, leading to speculation that it too will feature at the show. Leaks about the Pixel 7A have been circulating for weeks, including a hands-on report in March.
While it may seem that the event will be all about hardware, Google is also likely to make announcements on its software front. The company has been working on an AI-driven health monitoring system and there have been rumors of a new version of Android coming out soon with enhanced privacy features. Furthermore, reports suggest that Google could be launching a revamped version of its Maps app at the show which would include an augmented reality (AR) feature for navigation. Wednesday, May 10th marks the start of the I/O event, which promises to be jam-packed with fun.