Google’s highly anticipated Pixel 9 lineup, unveiled at the Made by Google event, boasted a plethora of new AI features powered by the company’s Gemini AI model. However, a live demonstration of one of these features turned into a cringeworthy moment for the tech giant. The demo showcased a new Gemini integration with the Calendar app, designed to seamlessly pull information from images and schedule events.
During the presentation, Google’s Dave Citron attempted the demo twice on a Galaxy S24 Ultra, but Gemini failed to deliver the expected results both times. Citron, with a touch of humor, said, “So if I happen to come across this Concert Poster for Sabrina Carpenter, I’ll just open Gemini and ask, check my calendar and see if I’m free when she’s coming to San Francisco this year. Gemini pulls relevant content from the image, connects with my calendar and gives me the information I’m looking for.” He tried again, remarking hopefully, “Let’s see if the demo spirits are with us today,” only to be met with the same error message.
The awkwardness of the situation didn’t escape the internet. Social media users immediately drew parallels to Elon Musk’s infamous Tesla Cybertruck demo in 2019, where the vehicle’s armored glass failed to withstand a steel ball impact. One user even posted the Cybertruck video in response to the Gemini demo fail. Another user jokingly suggested that Google could blame the issue on an imaginary DDoS attack, similar to the excuse Musk offered for issues during a live stream with former US President Donald Trump.
Yet another user pointed out the resemblance to Apple’s iPhone X launch in 2017, where Face ID, the device’s facial recognition system, struggled to function during the live demo. The Gemini demo failure highlighted the potential pitfalls of live demonstrations, showcasing the unexpected challenges that can arise even for the most advanced technologies. While the demo mishap was undoubtedly embarrassing for Google, it ultimately served as a reminder that even the most impressive advancements still require ongoing development and refinement.
