Google Unveils Project Astra AI Assistant

Google is advancing its AI initiatives, notably with Project Astra and Gemini 2.0, which are being tested as part of a broader strategy to enhance AI-driven interactions. Project Astra is a virtual assistant capable of processing text, images, video, and audio in real time, with new updates focusing on improved language understanding and integration with Google services like Search, Maps, and Lens. Gemini 2.0, the AI model behind Astra, has been integrated into prototype smartglasses that provide real-time environmental information and assist with tasks through voice-based interactions. Google also introduced a new AI tool, Deep Research, which uses Gemini to conduct web searches and generate detailed reports, showcasing the company's push towards 'agentic' AI capable of performing user tasks. While these innovations highlight significant advancements, they remain in testing phases, with no public release dates yet announced.