Google’s Gemini AI Can Now Auto-Fill Spreadsheet Cells

▼ Summary
– Google is introducing a new AI function in Sheets, powered by Gemini, to generate text, summarize data, or categorize information within spreadsheets.
– The feature allows users to create tailored ad copy or summarize customer feedback by referencing specific cells in the spreadsheet.
– Examples include categorizing customer inquiries or classifying restaurants by location, with more examples available on Google’s support page.
– The AI function has limitations, such as only supporting text-based responses and working with up to 200 selected cells at a time.
– The feature is rolling out to Google Workspace business/enterprise users, Gemini Pro/Ultra subscribers, and Gemini Education plan holders.
Google Sheets now integrates Gemini AI to automate text generation directly within spreadsheets, offering users a powerful tool to streamline data management tasks. The new AI function leverages artificial intelligence to create tailored content, summarize information, and categorize data, all without leaving the spreadsheet environment.
For marketers and analysts, this feature opens up possibilities like generating targeted ad copy based on audience segments listed in cells. By highlighting the relevant range and entering a simple formula, users can instruct Gemini to craft customized messaging. For instance, typing =AI(“Write a formal ad copy for the product. Cater copy to the objective and target audience.”, A2:C2) produces text aligned with the specified criteria.
Beyond marketing, the tool excels at summarizing feedback or classifying entries. A customer service team could quickly condense lengthy reviews into concise summaries with =AI(“For the customer, write a one sentence summary of their feedback.”, A2:D2). Similarly, businesses might categorize inquiries, such as returns or exchanges, or sort restaurants by location with minimal manual effort.
While the feature enhances productivity, it does have constraints. Currently, it only processes text-based outputs and works within a 200-cell limit per operation. Users must wait for the initial batch to complete before extending the selection. Additionally, Gemini’s access is restricted to the active sheet, preventing it from pulling data across files in Google Drive.
Available to Google Workspace business and enterprise subscribers, as well as Gemini Pro, Ultra, and Education plan holders, this update builds on existing AI capabilities in Sheets, like data analysis and visualization. As automation becomes integral to workflow efficiency, tools like these help professionals focus on strategy rather than repetitive tasks.
For those eager to explore further, Google’s support page provides detailed examples of how the AI function can be applied across different scenarios. The integration marks another step in making advanced AI accessible within everyday productivity tools.
(Source: The Verge)