In 2024, Google introduced Gems as “custom versions of Gemini.” The Gemini app will soon replace Gems with “skills.”

Going to the Gems manager today reveals a new notice at the top: “Gems will become skills starting Nov 17, 2026.”

Starting November 17, 2026, we’ll automatically begin migrating your Gems to skills. You will be able to use your Gems until they migrate.

Google introduced skills with Gemini Spark, and they serve the same purpose as Gems at a high level. Both let you give Gemini custom instructions.

Gems let you go a step further by setting a default tool, like Create image or Canvas, and adding specific files for context. They can also be shared with other users via links.

That said, skills are more easily invoked with a / in the prompt box, while multiple can be used at the same time. This broader access is better than first having to go to Gems in the side panel and scrolling down for My Gems.

Google’s announcement might have rolled out slightly early as the “Learn more” help article and “Create skills” button do not work yet.

If you’re a Google AI Pro or AI Ultra subscriber, you can make skills by switching to the Gemini Spark tab. Typing a slash in the Chat box will let you use skills in the main conversational experience. 

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