Gemini's Next Big Upgrade: Image Markup Tools Start Rolling Out for Enhanced Editing and Analysis

Google is rolling out a significant update to its Gemini AI, introducing powerful image markup tools that allow users to directly annotate and highlight images to focus the chatbot's attention. This new capability, which has been anticipated for months, is now actively appearing for users on both the dedicated Gemini app and the desktop web version.

The development of this feature was first spotted in app teardowns and leaks, and now it is finally being tested, signaling a major step in how users can interact with images within the AI environment.

Directing Gemini's Attention

The core function of the new markup tool is to bridge the gap between visual input and AI comprehension. When a user attaches an image to a Gemini prompt, they can now utilize drawing and highlighting tools to pinpoint specific areas. This serves two primary functions:

1. Precise Editing: The tool makes image editing instructions significantly more straightforward. Instead of using lengthy text descriptions to identify an object or area, users can simply circle or highlight the part they want to modify, making prompts like "change the color of this highlighted shirt" simple and direct.
2. Targeted Analysis: The markup also allows users to direct Gemini's attention for queries. If an image contains multiple subjects, a user can mark one of them and ask a question specifically about the highlighted individual or object, ensuring the AI focuses its analysis correctly.

Availability Across Platforms

The rollout appears to be targeting multiple platforms simultaneously. Users are reporting that the markup feature is accessible:

• In the Gemini Mobile App: Upon attaching an image, the app provides a notification about the new editing ability.
• On Gemini for Desktop: The feature is also becoming available on the web version, ensuring a consistent experience regardless of the device.

While it's currently unclear how widespread the testing is or if Google has initiated a full-scale rollout, the arrival of these tools marks a major upgrade, giving Gemini a more visual and intuitive interaction layer that enhances both the utility and precision of the conversational AI. Users are encouraged to check their own devices to see if they can start taking advantage of this powerful new feature.