Google has unveiled a suite of conversational AI features for its suite of apps, Docs, Gmail and Keep. These features, dubbed Docs Live, Gmail Live and Keep Live, allow users to interact with the AI using natural language, turning their digital workspace into a dialogue. Instead of typing search queries, users can ask questions to a Gemini-powered assistant, getting live transcripts and draft creations. The AI can even gather information from Gmail, Drive, chat, and the web to assist with writing and organisation.

For example, in Gmail Live, users can ask questions about their inbox contents, while Docs Live offers a voice-driven drafting assistant that can create a first draft based on natural language instructions. Keep Live provides a voice-activated scratchpad, capable of generating lists and recipes upon request. These features, available to Google AI Plus, Pro, and Ultra users, are set to roll out to Workplace Business customers soon.

Google has been increasingly integrating voice-based features across its ecosystem. Earlier this year, the company added cross-app dictation to its Mac app and introduced a Gemini-powered dictation tool called Rambler on Pixel 11 smartphones. For now, these innovative tools are restricted to English and are available on iOS and Android devices.

As AI becomes more integrated into our workflows, these features raise questions about privacy and the extent to which we are willing to engage with AI in our professional lives. Will the future of work be defined by seamless AI-assisted communication, or will we seek to maintain a barrier between human and machine?