Google introduces AI colleague with its own workspace

Google has taken an important step in integrating AI within organizations by launching the Gemini agent, as announced during the Gemini at Work event on October 8, 2026. This new AI agent is designed as a digital colleague with its own workspace, including an email address, calendar, and access to Google Drive. This allows companies to engage in effective collaboration with AI. Notably, the Gemini agent is not limited to Google's own models but also seeks to interface with the AI models of competitor Anthropic, highlighting the versatility of this new tool.

The Gemini agent, accessible via a special Workspace account, operates under its own identity and is thus capable of independently performing tasks. This includes answering questions, generating documents and images, and even writing code. An important feature, the "coworker agent," enables companies to use these AI colleagues not only within their own systems but also in conjunction with platforms such as Microsoft 365 and Slack. This allows employees to easily delegate tasks via Google Chat.

According to data from CBS, by 2025, 66% of large Dutch companies were already using AI technologies. This makes the implementation of the Gemini agent a realistic scenario for many organizations. Google reports that nearly 90% of the largest hundred companies in the United States are already using Gemini Enterprise. However, currently, there are limitations; the agent is not yet available for all sectors and is currently only in preview mode for the financial and legal sectors.

In addition to the benefits related to efficiency and process automation, Google also emphasizes the importance of control when using AI colleagues. Each agent has a controllable identity, and an Agent Gateway ensures that it only has access to external systems with approval. Companies can also set budgets per project, ensuring cost management remains in check. This aligns with the trend that Microsoft is also following with its AI, Copilot, which is capable of independently performing tasks within Windows.

Read the full article from AI Insider.