Google CEO Sundar Pichai adds new coding feature called Canvas to Gemini chatbot
After OpenAI released its Canvas tool for ChatGPT, Google has followed suit by introducing two new features to its AI-powered Gemini chatbot: Canvas and Audio Overview. Google's Canvas feature provides an interactive workspace for users to create, refine, and share writing and coding projects seamlessly, enhancing collaboration and creativity within the platform.
Competitive Naming and Functionality
Google's adoption of key functionalities and naming conventions similar to other AI tools has added a competitive edge to the AI landscape. For example, Google launched the AI-powered tool called Deep Research in December, with OpenAI releasing a similar model under the same name in February 2025.
Exploring Canvas and Audio Overview
Canvas offers an interactive workspace within the Gemini app, accessible on both web and mobile platforms, allowing users to draft, refine, and share writing and coding projects. The feature enables users to adjust tone, length, and formatting by highlighting paragraphs and prompting Gemini to make text more concise, professional, or informal.
Collaboration is streamlined, with completed content exportable directly to Google Docs. Furthermore, within Canvas, users can generate and preview HTML/React code and web app prototypes, facilitating the design process. Users can request changes, view instant previews, and share creations seamlessly.
AI-Powered Audio Summaries
Building on NotebookLM's capabilities, the Audio Overview feature in Gemini converts written materials into podcast-style discussions. Users can upload documents through the prompt bar to generate audio summaries, improving content consumption on-the-go. Currently, Audio Overview supports various file formats and is available in English.
According to Google, Audio Overview enhances learning by providing audio summaries of class notes, research papers, or reports, making content consumption more engaging and productive. The feature is now rolling out globally to Gemini subscribers in English, with support for more languages in the pipeline.
Overall, Canvas and Audio Overview aim to enhance user experience within the Gemini platform, offering innovative ways to create, collaborate, and consume content effectively.
