Google’s upcoming Bard Advanced chatbot has generated a buzz among developers and users alike. As details about the advanced version of Bard have started to surface, one particular aspect has caught the attention of many: the possibility that users will have to pay to access Bard Advanced. This information was spotted by developer Bedros Pamboukian while exploring the code on the Google Bard website.
The code on the Bard website contains two intriguing sentences that hint at a potential paid model for Bard Advanced. The first sentence states: “Try Bard Advanced for 3 months, on us.” This suggests that users may have a free trial period of three months, after which they would need to pay to continue using Bard Advanced. The second sentence adds more detail, mentioning “more capable large language models with advanced math and reasoning skills.” This implies that Bard Advanced may offer enhanced features compared to its predecessor.
If Google decides to introduce a payment model for Bard Advanced, it could significantly impact users who have grown accustomed to utilizing the chatbot for free. Currently, Google’s competitors in the chatbot market, such as Microsoft’s Copilot and OpenAI’s ChatGPT, offer their services free of charge. Introducing a paid version of Bard Advanced might deter some users from continuing to utilize the service, especially if they can find similar AI chatbots that remain free.
A Possible Link to Google One
There is speculation that Bard Advanced could be connected to Google’s subscription service, Google One. Pamboukian noticed a Google One URL in Bard’s source code, suggesting that Bard Advanced might either be included as part of a Google One subscription or available as a separate purchase. However, it is worth noting that at the time of this article’s publication, the URL was broken, so its exact purpose remains uncertain.
The Release Date and AI Models
Google announced an “early 2024” launch date for Bard Advanced, but the exact rollout date is still unknown. The company introduced Bard Advanced alongside Gemini AI, its most powerful AI model to date. Reports suggest that Google plans to use Gemini Nano to power Pixie, an AI assistant exclusive to Pixel smartphones. Meanwhile, Bard and Bard Advanced will rely on the more advanced models, Gemini Pro and Gemini Ultra, respectively. The anticipated release of Bard Advanced aligns with Google’s previously announced timeline.
If Bard Advanced does become a paid service, it raises questions about the future of chatbots and the willingness of users to pay for such AI-powered features. In a market where free alternatives exist, Google will need to ensure that Bard Advanced justifies its price tag by offering unique and compelling capabilities. The success of Bard Advanced may shape the pricing and availability strategies of other chatbot providers, as they respond to Google’s move.
The prospect of Bard Advanced no longer being free raises important considerations for users and the broader chatbot landscape. Google’s decision to potentially charge for the advanced version of Bard will undoubtedly impact its user base. As the release of Bard Advanced approaches, users eagerly await more information and confirmation regarding the pricing structure and features of this highly anticipated chatbot.
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