Google’s AI-powered chatbot, Gemini, has recently undergone a significant visual transformation, aligning its iconography more closely with the company’s primary branding. This change marks a departure from Gemini’s original blue-purple color scheme, embracing the iconic four-color palette synonymous with Google.
Evolution of the Gemini Icon
Since its inception, Gemini’s icon featured a distinctive blue-purple gradient, setting it apart from other Google applications. In April 2025, a subtle update adjusted the distribution of these colors, resulting in a slightly larger and brighter homescreen icon. This modification aimed to enhance visibility and user engagement.
In June 2025, Google began phasing out the red variant of the Gemini Advanced logo, signaling a unified approach to the Gemini brand. The latest iteration introduces a four-pointed sparkle design, incorporating Google’s signature colors: blue, red, yellow, and green. A gradient effect on the left side adds depth and modernity to the icon. This update is currently visible in the beta version 16.25 of the Google app on Android, particularly when generating Audio Overviews.
Strategic Implications of the Redesign
The adoption of Google’s primary color scheme in the Gemini icon reflects the company’s confidence in its AI chatbot and its commitment to integrating AI across its product suite. This visual alignment enhances brand consistency and reinforces Gemini’s position within Google’s ecosystem.
However, this change has sparked discussions among users. Some appreciate the cohesive branding, while others express concerns about the homogenization of app icons, potentially making it challenging to distinguish between different Google services. Despite these concerns, the unique sparkle shape of the Gemini icon continues to provide a level of distinctiveness.
Broader Context: Google’s Visual Identity and AI Integration
This redesign is part of a broader trend within Google to unify its visual identity, especially as it integrates AI capabilities across various platforms. The updated ‘G’ logo introduced in May 2025 features a gradient that mirrors the new Gemini icon, symbolizing the dynamic and evolving nature of AI. This cohesive design language aims to create a seamless user experience and reinforce Google’s commitment to AI innovation.
The sparkle icon, now associated with AI features in Google products, has become a recognizable symbol of AI-powered actions. This design choice aligns with industry trends where the sparkle emoji is increasingly used to represent AI functionalities, conveying a sense of magic and innovation.
User Experience Considerations
While the visual update aligns Gemini with Google’s core branding, it also raises considerations regarding user experience. The uniformity in app icons may lead to challenges in quickly identifying specific applications, especially for users who rely on color cues. To address this, Google may need to explore additional design elements or features that enhance app distinguishability without compromising brand cohesion.
Conclusion
Google’s decision to revamp the Gemini icon signifies a strategic move to integrate its AI offerings more closely with its primary brand identity. By adopting the familiar four-color palette and incorporating the sparkle design, Google reinforces its commitment to AI innovation and creates a cohesive visual language across its products. As AI continues to play a pivotal role in Google’s ecosystem, such design updates are likely to become more prevalent, reflecting the company’s evolving focus and technological advancements.
