Why Gemini is My AI Assistant

Why Choose Gemini Over ChatGPT?

If you haven’t explored Google AI since Bard, it’s time to try Gemini. OpenAI surprised the tech world, including Apple and Google. These companies reacted differently to ChatGPT’s success. Google recovered well, and Gemini is arguably a better chatbot than ChatGPT in 2025. If you still use ChatGPT, that's understandable. Google's AI start with Bard wasn't ideal, but it has improved significantly with Gemini.

OpenAI’s ChatGPT outage could motivate you to try Gemini. I use Gemini, and haven’t used ChatGPT in two years, and these features explain why.

Versatile Gemini Models

The variety of models and tools within Gemini is a key reason to use Google AI. The main Gemini models are Nano, Flash, and Pro. Gemini Nano handles on-device mobile AI tasks. Gemini Flash manages simple, everyday requests. Gemini Pro is for advanced needs. Google holds the top spots on LMArena’s leaderboard with preview versions of Gemini 2.5 Pro. The Gemini 2.5 Pro preview model also leads on LMArena’s WebDev leaderboard. Gemini models often outperform ChatGPT models in benchmarks. There's a model for every use, including efficient on-device processing, lightweight token usage, detailed work display, and specialized applications. You can also build Gems, custom AI chatbots similar to OpenAI’s custom GPTs.

Mobile Integration

For most users, specific AI model rankings are unimportant. Gemini's integration with mobile operating systems sets it apart. The Gemini app works on iOS and iPadOS. It particularly shines on Android phones, tablets, or ChromeOS laptops. Gemini is replacing Google Assistant, making it easily accessible via button or voice command on Android phones. Gemini Live allows natural language interaction with screen or camera sharing for context. While ChatGPT offers similar capabilities, Gemini packages them more conveniently. This easy access makes Gemini a helpful tool for real-world problem-solving. I use Gemini Live to diagnose plant issues or find recipe substitutions. Gemini provides online sources for its answers, aiding fact-checking.

Gemini is coming to Android Auto and Wear OS watches, further enhancing accessibility. OpenAI benefits from its Microsoft partnership, improving Copilot and ChatGPT integration with Microsoft 365. However, Google’s free Google Workspace model has drawn many from Microsoft 365. Gemini integrates deeply with Workspace, enhancing productivity. It appears in Workspace apps by powering individual features, as standalone apps, and as a chatbot sidebar. Google Vids and NotebookLM are new Gemini-powered apps. Google Docs and Slides have a Gemini sidebar for assistance. Gmail features contextual smart replies using Google AI. Gemini is readily available, unlike ChatGPT, which requires switching between windows and apps. Whether on Android with Gemini Live or Gmail with a Gemini sidebar, Google’s AI is more accessible.

Novel AI devices like the Humane AI Pin or Rabbit R1 failed because users disliked switching devices. Gemini eliminates device and app switching. You can also do more for free with Gemini than with ChatGPT. The leading Gemini models are mostly free, as is Gemini Live with video streaming and screen sharing. Gemini Pro and Ultra subscriptions offer additional features, but most daily tools are free, sometimes without even needing a Google account. I am a satisfied Gemini user and don’t see a need for ChatGPT in 2025.