Bard AI Review 2026
Google's experimental AI chatbot that has evolved into Gemini AI.
Pros
- +Free to use
- +Deep Google Search integration
- +Export responses to Google Docs
- +Multiple response drafts
- +Voice input support
- +Now enhanced as Gemini
Cons
- -Rebranded - now Gemini
- -Early versions were less capable
- -Required Google account
- -Limited compared to current Gemini
What Is Bard AI?
Bard was Google's original AI chatbot experiment, launched in early 2023 as a response to ChatGPT. It served as Google's public AI laboratory before being rebranded to Gemini in February 2024, reflecting the upgrade to Google's most capable AI models.
What We Like
Bard pioneered several features now standard in Gemini — Google Search integration for real-time information, multiple draft responses for each query, and direct export to Google Docs. These features remain and are enhanced in the current Gemini product.
What Could Be Better
Bard is no longer maintained as a separate product. Users should transition to Gemini at gemini.google.com for the latest capabilities and models. Early versions of Bard were notably less capable than today's Gemini, leading to initial skepticism.
Status Update
Bard has been officially rebranded as Gemini. All Bard features are available and enhanced at gemini.google.com. Gemini Advanced at $19.99/month unlocks the most capable model.