Google is shutting down Gems, its Gemini feature for creating custom AI assistants, and will automatically migrate users’ creations to a new format called skills.
A message in the Gemini app says the change will take effect on November 17, 2026. According to Google, users will not need to take any action, and their Gems will remain available until the transition. The company said the work invested in creating Gems will be preserved through the migration.
Launched in 2024, Gems allowed users to configure Gemini for specific tasks without repeating instructions. Google offered built-in options such as a learning coach, brainstorming assistant, career guide, coding partner and editor. Users could also create and share custom assistants for activities including running, nutrition and travel planning.
Under the new system, users will select a skill by typing a forward slash in a task thread. The change comes as Google reorganizes Gemini features while competing with newer all-in-one AI agents.
Source: TechCrunch
