May 1, 2025
Start a conversation with Gemini in the side panel of Google Drive about specific files
What’s changing
Since rolling out Gemini in the side panel of Google Drive, users have been able to summarize one or multiple documents, get quick facts while viewing PDFs, create files and folders, and more.
Most recently, we added clickable “nudges” at the top of the Drive homepage and folders to help you get started with Gemini in Drive even faster, and today we’re introducing updates that make starting a conversation with Gemini about a specific set of files easier.
After entering your question or prompt into the side panel, click the new “Add sources” button to let Gemini know which sources to draw from to generate a response. You can also drag and drop sources into the side panel to drive your conversation. With this new functionally, you’ll have better visibility and control over sources used in your conversations with Gemini.
Drag and drop sources into the side panel to drive your conversation
Visibility and control over sources used in your conversations with Gemini
Getting started
- Admins: To access Gemini in the side panel of Workspace apps, users need to have smart features and personalization turned on. Admins can turn on default personalization setting for their users in the Admin console.
- End users: Visit the Help Center to learn more about collaborating with Gemini in Google Drive.
Rollout pace
- Rapid Release domains: Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility) starting on May 1, 2025
- Scheduled Release domains: Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility) starting on May 14, 2025
Availability
Available for Google Workspace:
- Business Standard and Plus
- Enterprise Standard and Plus
- Customers with the Gemini Education or Gemini Education Premium add-on
- Google One AI Premium
- Gemini Business*
- Gemini Enterprise*
Resources
- Google Workspace Admin Help: Turn on or off Gmail, Chat, and Meet smart features and personalization (Region specific)
- Google Help: Collaborate with Gemini in Google Drive