Bengaluru: Google has partnered with the MeitY ‘Startup Hub’ to train 10,000 startups in artificial intelligence (AI) as part of a broader initiative to empower Indian developers and startups. At the ‘I/O Connect’ event, Google introduced a range of new AI tools, models, and partnerships aimed at putting Indian innovators at the forefront of the global AI revolution.
Key Announcements
AI Model Access
- Expansion: Developers in India now have access to Google’s advanced AI models, including Gemini 1.5 Pro and Gemma 2.
- Context Window: Features a two-million token context window, enhancing AI capabilities for developers.
Developer Platform
- Google AI Studio: The primary platform for building with Gemini, boasting one of the largest developer bases in India.
Project Vaani
- Collaboration: Google DeepMind and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have expanded Project Vaani.
- Data Provision: Offers over 14,000 hours of speech data across 58 languages, sourced from 80,000 speakers in 80 districts.
IndicGenBench
- Benchmark Introduction: A new benchmark to evaluate language models’ capabilities in Indic languages.
- Open-Source Initiative: Introduction of CALM (Composition of Language Models).
New Tools and Programs
Google Wallet APIs
- Integration: Simplifies the integration of loyalty programs, tickets, and gift cards for developers.
Google Maps Platform
- Pricing Adjustment: India-specific pricing introduced with up to 70% lower costs on most APIs.
Collaboration with ONDC
- Discounts: Developers building for ONDC can avail up to 90% off on select Google Maps Platform APIs.
Key Statements
Ambharish Kenghe, Vice President, Google
- Commitment: “We’re committed to empowering Indian innovators to harness AI’s full potential, creating solutions that not only address India’s unique needs but also shape the future of AI globally.”
Seshu Ajjarapu, Senior Director, Google DeepMind
- Impact: “From consumer experiences to agriculture, to social enterprises, AI has the power to address some of the biggest challenges of our time across many sectors and industries.”
Conclusion
Google’s collaboration with MeitY ‘Startup Hub’ signifies a significant step towards fostering AI innovation in India. By providing extensive access to advanced AI models, tools, and programs, Google aims to position Indian startups at the cutting edge of the AI revolution, driving substantial advancements across various sectors.
