Google is phasing out its Gem feature within the Gemini application, which previously allowed users to create custom AI assistants for specific tasks. Starting November 17, 2026, all existing Gem bots will be automatically converted into new functional units called skills.
The company stated that the migration process will be handled internally, requiring no manual input from users. Until the transition date, the current Gem functionality will remain fully operational for all users.
The Gem feature, originally launched in 2024, enabled users to build specialized AI agents for roles such as coding assistants, career advisors, or personal fitness coaches. These custom bots could also be shared with other individuals.
The new skills system will require users to input a forward slash character to activate specific functions within a chat thread. Industry observers suggest this interface design may be less intuitive for general users compared to the conversational models offered by competitors like Meta's Muse.
