Google has announced a major change impacting all Australian Chrome users, and it is starting today.

From Tuesday, Google Chrome will introduce Gemini in Chrome in Australia, a new AI functionality that the tech platform is running as competition to ChatGPT and Claude.

The roll out, in the form of a Gemini powered side panel in in all eligible Chrome applications, has been gradual, with the feature being added to selected markets bit-by-bit, but the significance of the move cannot be understated.

Google Chrome, as of early 2026, has around 3.62 billion users.

Now, as the Gemini in Chrome function is rolled out country by country, Google’s AI tool is being pushed to one of the largest collectives online.

What does Gemini in Chrome do?

According to Google, Gemini in Chrome is going to be a user’s go-to assistant, that will help them use the browser like never before.

“With Gemini in Chrome, you can get AI assistance in your browser to easily get key takeaways, clarify concepts, find answers and more,” Google says.

“To provide the most relevant responses, Gemini in Chrome uses content from your current browser tab.

“On a computer, you can also share up to 10 open tabs with Gemini.”

The AI assistant built right into the browser, accessed by clicking a sparkly looking icon on the tool bar, is set to offer game-changing functionality for users.

From summarising content on a page, collating reviews, compare shopping options and to integrate what it does with other Google applications like Gmail, Google Flights, Google Docs and more.

Some feature are set to be added later, and to premium customers, that will see Gemini in Chrome capable of booking appointments, planning events and automating tasks after being given prompts. Those features are rolling out first in the US to Google AI Pro and Ultra subscribers.

If you are shopping up a storm online, Gemini in Chrome offers to help users “see what goes” with items they are looking at. From sleeping bags and camping mattresses to tops and pants and dresses and shoes, the AI tool is set to become a retail companion.

The tool will take the powerful functionality of Gemini, which has ran independently of Chrome since 2023, and bring it direct into the browser, allowing users to brainstorm, organise a deep dive into a topic or simply answer questions all by clicking a button on the browser.

In a list provided by Google, Gemini in Chrome can help Aussies prepare for a new pet, organise their linked Google Calendar, summarise info to help someone make a quick decision, create study aides, let auto browse do shopping, tailor recipes for individual needs and more.

Is Gemini in Chrome safe?

Overall, expects suggest that Gemini in Chrome, based on rollouts already completed, is relatively safe for everyday online use.

The AI tool is built around “the best of Google’s security”, according to the tech company.

“We strictly uphold responsible data practices, put you in control of your information, and are actively implementing privacy safeguards tailored to the unique needs of our AI products,” Google says.

The functionality needs to be activated when a user wants to use it, however, as it is linked to your Google account, it will be able to pull data from your online and Google activity.

“Gemini in Chrome activates only when you choose to use it via clicking on the Gemini icon or the keyboard shortcut that you set up. It assists on your terms, stepping in only when you ask,” Google says.

“You can access your Gemini Apps activity at any time to manage, delete and turn off your activity.”

By using a microphone and a devices speakers, users can even talk to Gemini in Chrome to help them browse and work online.

For mobile users, Gemini in Chrome is currently unavailable on Android devices, however, is being rolled out on iOS for iPhone and iPad, functioning in a similar way to the desktop view.

Google says if Gemini in Chrome doesn’t automatically appear in Chrome, they should ensure they are signed in, using Chrome in English and have the latest version of the app installed.

Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea and Vietnam are also part of Tuesday’s rollout.