Google has initiated the rollout of a significant feature for free Gemini users: the ability to upload and analyze files. Previously available exclusively to paid Advanced subscribers, this function will enable free users to gain quick insights and summaries from their documents. Upon the completion of the rollout, users will encounter a prompt stating, “Upload files to get quick summaries and actionable insights.” This feature is accessible via the ‘plus’ menu in the Android app and on gemini.google.com, presenting files from both Google Drive and local storage alongside existing Camera and Gallery options.
When users upload documents into Gemini, they can inquire specific questions regarding the content, facilitating advanced search capabilities and summaries. Furthermore, spreadsheet uploads can generate insights, with the additional option to create visual representations like charts based on the data provided. The functionality is designed to enhance user interaction with documents and streamline data analysis. Supported file formats encompass a variety of types, although Google has yet to release comprehensive support documentation outlining specific file types.
While the advanced character limit for Gemini Advanced is notable at 1 million tokens, allowing for extensive analysis of text or code, details regarding the context window for the new free feature remain unspecified at this stage.
In the Android environment, users can leverage this capability through features like “Ask about this PDF” available in Files by Google, as well as “Talk Like about this” on recent devices such as the Pixel and the Samsung Galaxy S24/S25. The new function is expected to roll out to free Gemini accounts gradually but is not yet universally available. Importantly, this capability is exclusive to the Gemini 2.0 Flash model, with older versions like Gemini 1.5 Flash being phased out.
The introduction of file upload for Gemini Advanced occurred in May of the previous year alongside the release of the 1.5 Pro version. This recent expansion into the free tier highlights Google’s ongoing commitment to enhancing accessibility and utility within its AI-driven platform. Despite the advancement, several features remain exclusive to Advanced subscriptions, including Deep Research, custom Gems, Saved Info, and Recall functionalities.
As Google continues to evolve its Gemini platform, the implications of these new features for users and the competitive landscape of AI tools are significant. The ability to upload and interact with files directly marks a pragmatic approach to integrating AI with everyday work processes, and the release signals an encouraging trend toward more robust, user-friendly AI solutions.