Google Gemini app is undergoing a major change to its Gems feature, which allows users to create personalized experiences. The company has officially announced that it will replace the Gems structure with a new, more functional system called Skills.

With this update, existing Gems structures will automatically migrate to the new system. Users will be able to continue using their existing Gems structures until November 17, 2026.

Differences Between Gems and Skills

Gems were defined by Google as special versions of Gemini and offered users the ability to give customized instructions. The new skills system serves a similar purpose but offers valuable advantages in terms of ease of use.

Gems offered advanced features such as setting a default tool or adding specific documents to the context. Additionally, these structures could be shared with other users via contacts.

The skills system stands out by offering a more practical access method. Users can directly access these skills by placing a forward slash in the chat box.

This new method promises a much faster experience than going to the Gems menu in the side panel and scrolling down. Furthermore, the simultaneous use of allowing multiple skills makes the workflow more efficient.

Usage and Subscription Details

Google introduced this new system with Gemini Spark. The skills creation process is designed specifically for Google AI Pro or AI Ultra subscribers.

Subscribers can create their own skills by switching to the Gemini Spark tab. The forward slash symbol entered in the chat box activates these skills within the main conversation experience.

Currently, Google’s announcement seems a bit premature. Help articles and skill creation buttons are not yet fully functional.

Google aims for all users to adapt to this new system with the transition process starting on November 17, 2026. The automatic migration process will function as a mechanism to ensure users don’t lose their existing customizations.

How do you think this new system will affect your workflow?