Google to provide Gemini AI tools to US government for free

(Patria) - The US government announced that Google will provide its Gemini artificial intelligence tools to US federal agencies for practically free, AFP reported.

The package of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing services called "Gemini for Government" from Google is intended to accelerate the adoption of technology in the US government, the General Services Administration (GSA) said in a statement.
"Gemini for Government gives federal agencies access to our comprehensive approach to AI innovation so they can carry out their important missions," added Google CEO Sundar Pichai.

The artificial intelligence tools being provided include generating videos, images or ideas, as well as digital "agents" capable of independently performing complex tasks.
US agencies will pay a fee of less than one dollar for the AI tools, building on a previous agreement that provided Google Workspace software to the government at a significant discount, according to the GSA.

"Federal agencies can now significantly transform their operations by using the tools in Gemini for Government," said acting GSA administrator Michael Rigas.

This comes a few weeks after Google's rival OpenAI announced it would allow the US government to use a version of ChatGPT designed for businesses for one year for just one dollar.

"By giving government employees access to powerful, secure AI tools, we can help them solve problems faster for more people," OpenAI said in a post announcing the partnership.

Earlier this year, the US Department of Defense awarded OpenAI a $200 million contract to use generative artificial intelligence in the military.
OpenAI planned to demonstrate how cutting-edge AI can improve administrative operations, such as how service members receive healthcare, and also has applications for cyber defense.