Google is discontinuing the Gems feature within its Gemini app — a tool that let users build custom AI assistants for specific tasks — but the functionality will not disappear, TechCrunch reports. According to Google, after November 17, 2026, Gems will continue in a new form under the name Skills.
What happens to existing assistants?
Google says that previously created “gems” will be automatically converted and remain usable within Skills. Users do not need to take any action for the migration; the transition will be handled automatically.
Background: what was Gems?
Google launched the Gems feature in 2024. It allowed users to perform recurring tasks in Gemini via pre-configured, personalized AI assistants so they did not need to re-enter instructions each time. Gems included several ready-made assistants, such as a learning aid and a career advisor.
Users could also create their own custom assistants tailored to their needs — for example, a nutrition advisor or a vacation planner.
What to expect from Skills?
Skills promises similar capabilities to Gems, but with some interface changes: assistants will be invoked by typing a leading '/' character, a convention that will feel natural to developers and users familiar with command-style invocation. Google indicates that the user experience and the functionality of existing assistants will be preserved through the migration.
Why this matters
The change shows Google iterating on the Gemini product while keeping user-created content and workflows intact. Automatic migration reduces friction for users, and the new invocation method may streamline access for those who prefer command-style interaction.
(Note: the reporting referenced is from TechCrunch and summarizes the key facts and dates.)
