Google reorganizes Gemini, Assistant, and Search, adds passport support to Wallet and introduces new security features in Android

Google has announced a major reorganization across several of its key areas, including Gemini, Assistant, and Search. CEO Sundar Pichai explained the changes in a recent company update, stating that these shifts are aimed at improving efficiency, innovation, and product development, particularly in AI-powered solutions.

Gemini Team Moves to DeepMind

The Gemini app team, previously part of Google’s Knowledge & Information (K&I) division—responsible for Search, Ads, Maps, and Commerce—is now being moved to the Google DeepMind organization. DeepMind is Google’s AI research lab, and this move is intended to enhance collaboration between teams and accelerate the deployment of new AI models.

Pichai noted, “By bringing these teams closer together, we can improve feedback loops, speed up deployment of new models in the Gemini app, and make our post-training efforts more efficient.”

Assistant Now Part of Pixel and Android

Google’s Assistant team, previously linked to the Gemini team, will now be part of the Platforms & Devices division, which oversees Pixel and Android. This realignment allows Assistant developers to work more closely with the hardware and software products they’re supporting, with a stronger focus on enhancing user experience in AI-driven home and device integrations.

This shift brings Google’s AI-powered initiatives, especially in the home automation and device ecosystem, under a unified team, which is expected to streamline efforts and drive better results.

Prabhakar Raghavan Transitions to Chief Technologist

Another significant change involves Prabhakar Raghavan, who has stepped down from his role as Senior Vice President of Search. He will now take on the role of Chief Technologist at Google, where he will partner closely with Sundar Pichai and other Google leaders to provide technical direction and leadership.

Raghavan’s contributions to Google have been vast, spanning across products like Gmail, Drive, Ads, and Search. He played a key role in launching AI-powered features such as Smart Reply and Smart Compose, while also driving AI advancements in Search, including the introduction of AI Overviews and visual search tools like Lens. His transition to Chief Technologist marks a new phase in his career, where he will continue to influence the technical growth of the company.

Nick Fox Takes Over Knowledge & Information Division

Following Raghavan’s move, Nick Fox, a long-time Googler and Senior Vice President, will now lead the Knowledge & Information division. Fox has been instrumental in shaping Google’s AI product strategy, working on initiatives that span Search, Assistant, Ads, and more. He has launched successful consumer products like Google Fi and has led complex projects such as RCS messaging.

Fox’s new role signals Google’s commitment to continuing its innovation in AI-driven products and services, particularly in Search, Ads, and other K&I-related areas.

Google Wallet Testing Digital Passport Feature

In another exciting development, Google Wallet has begun testing a feature that allows users to store digital versions of their U.S. passports. This feature is currently in beta for users enrolled in Google Play services and is available for domestic flights in select U.S. airports.

The process to add a passport to Google Wallet involves scanning the passport’s information page, detecting the embedded security chip using NFC technology, and submitting a brief video to verify the user’s identity. Google will then match the video to the passport photo to confirm the authenticity of the document.

This feature, much like the existing state ID option in Google Wallet, offers users the convenience of securely carrying their identification digitally. If a phone is lost, users can remotely remove the digital passport from their devices.

New Security Features in Android 15

As part of Android’s upcoming updates, Google is introducing a new security feature called “Failed Authentication Lock” as part of its enhanced theft protection suite. This feature will lock down devices after multiple failed login attempts, preventing unauthorized access.

This new layer of security adds to Android’s existing protections, which include Theft Detection Lock, Remote Lock, and Offline Device Lock. These features are part of Google’s continued efforts to strengthen user privacy and security across its ecosystem.

Conclusion

Google’s recent organizational changes reflect its ongoing efforts to streamline AI development, enhance product efficiency, and bolster security. Moving the Gemini app team to DeepMind, refocusing Assistant on device integrations, and adding digital passport functionality to Google Wallet demonstrate the company’s commitment to innovation. With the introduction of new security measures in Android 15, Google continues to prioritize user safety and a seamless experience across its services.