Google Replaces Gemini Gems with Skills Feature

Google is shutting down Gemini's Gems feature, which let users build custom AI assistants for tasks like coaching, brainstorming, and planning. Starting November 17, 2026, Gems will be automatically migrated to a new format called skills, requiring no action from users. Skills will be accessible across different AI tasks by typing a forward slash in a task thread. Critics note the interface favors technical users over general consumers, and the change reflects a broader pattern of Google rebranding and consolidating AI features rather than maintaining consistent product identities.