Google Confirms Gemini 4 Will Replace the Gemini 3.5 Pro

Google DeepMind has confirmed development of its next-generation AI model Gemini 4 alongside a major leadership restructuring, according to a report from Universe of AI published Thursday. The shift follows delays and mixed results from earlier models including Gemini 3.5 Pro and 3.6 Flash. The changes are aimed at addressing internal inefficiencies and improving decision-making processes, the report said. Demis Hassabis is stepping into a new role as Chair of DeepMind and Chief Scientist of Alphabet, focusing on AI-driven drug development at Isomorphic Labs. Koray Kavukcuoglu has assumed the role of Senior Vice President overseeing development of the Gemini models and leading AI research initiatives. The leadership restructuring is intended to streamline decision-making and align resources with strategic priorities. Gemini 3.5 Pro, initially slated for release in mid-2026, faced repeated delays while Gemini 3.5 Flash and 3.6 Flash models failed to meet critical performance benchmarks. DeepMind is shifting resources away from incremental updates like Gemini 3.5 Pro to prioritize Gemini 4 development. The company's AI infrastructure and Alphabet's distribution network provide a foundation for future growth.