You can now start Gemini conversations right in Google Drive about specific files

Google continues to integrate Gemini directly into the Workspace ecosystem to further streamline workflows and enhance productivity. Following the recent introduction of helpful prompts on the Drive homepage, a new update makes interacting with Gemini about specific files even more intuitive. Rolling out now, users can directly initiate conversations with Gemini in the side panel of Google Drive while referencing a precise set of documents.

Previously, engaging Gemini within Drive allowed for broad queries across your stored files or focused analysis of a single open document. This latest enhancement takes things much further by enabling users to explicitly designate the source material for Gemini’s insights. After typing your question or prompt into the side panel, a newly implemented “Add sources” button becomes available. Clicking this button allows you to select the specific files you want Gemini to consider when generating its response.

Furthermore, Google has introduced a convenient drag-and-drop functionality. Users can now simply drag files directly from their Drive and drop them into the Gemini side panel. This action instantly designates these files as the primary sources for the ongoing conversation.

Whether you need to summarize key insights from several related documents, extract specific data points across multiple reports, or generate comparative analyses, the ability to define the source material directly within the conversation flow makes your workflow far more efficient and accurate.

For Google Workspace administrators, ensuring users can leverage this functionality requires that smart features and personalization are enabled within the Admin console. End users seeking guidance on utilizing Gemini within Google Drive can find comprehensive information in the Google Workspace Help Center.

The rollout of this feature started on May 1, 2025 for Rapid Release domains, with a gradual roll-out of up to 15 days for full visibility. Scheduled Release domains will begin seeing this update on May 14, 2025, following the same gradual roll-out timeline. This enhancement will be available to Google Workspace Business Standard and Plus, Enterprise Standard and Plus subscribers, customers with the Gemini Education or Gemini Education Premium add-on, and Google One AI Premium users. Additionally, those who previously purchased the Gemini Business or Gemini Enterprise add-ons will also receive this one, too.