How to sign up for Gemini

by Sarah MacPherson, a product manager, ai enthusiast trying to find the best and most interesting ways to work with this new frontier

What you need to sign up

Signing up for Gemini is straightforward, especially if you already have a Google account. You'll need:

A Google account (like a Gmail address)
A web browser
A few minutes to get set up

If you don't have a Google account, you'll need to create one first. No phone verification or credit card is required to use the free version of Gemini.

Step-by-step signup process

Go to the Gemini website: Open your browser and visit gemini.google.com. You'll see a "Try Gemini" or "Sign in" button.

Sign in with your Google account: Click the sign-in button and enter your Google account credentials (your Gmail address and password). If you have multiple Google accounts, choose the one you want to use for Gemini.

AI prompt: "What are the benefits of using my existing Google account vs. creating a new one just for Gemini?"

Accept the terms: You'll be asked to review and accept Google's terms of service and privacy policy for Gemini. Read through these (or at least skim them) to understand how your data will be used.

Complete any additional setup: Depending on your account settings, you might be asked a few questions about how you plan to use Gemini or to confirm some preferences. These are typically optional.

Start using Gemini: Once you're signed in, you'll see the main Gemini interface with a text box where you can start typing questions or uploading images.

If you don't have a Google account

If you don't already have a Google account, you'll need to create one:

Go to accounts.google.com
Click "Create account"
Follow the prompts to set up your account (provide name, email address, password, and phone number for verification)
Once your Google account is created, go to gemini.google.com and sign in

Using Gemini on mobile

Gemini is accessible through mobile browsers and may also have a dedicated mobile app depending on your region:

On Android: Check the Google Play Store for the Gemini app, or access gemini.google.com through Chrome
On iOS: Check the App Store for the Gemini app, or access gemini.google.com through Safari
Conversations sync across devices when you're logged into the same Google account

The mobile browser experience works well if a native app isn't available or preferred.

Troubleshooting common signup issues

Already signed in to multiple Google accounts: If you're signed into multiple Google accounts in your browser, make sure you choose the right one when signing in to Gemini. You can switch accounts from the profile icon in the top right.

Account not eligible: In rare cases, certain types of Google accounts (like some education or enterprise accounts) may have restrictions. If you can't access Gemini with your current account, try a personal Gmail account instead.

Browser issues: Gemini works best in modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. Make sure your browser is up to date. Clear your cache if you're experiencing problems.

Regional availability: Gemini may not be available in all countries. If you can't access it from your location, you'll typically see a message explaining the restriction.

What happens after signup?

Once you're signed in, you'll see Gemini's interface with a text input box at the bottom. You can:

Type questions or prompts
Upload images by clicking the image icon
Start new conversations to keep topics organized
View your conversation history in the sidebar

Your free account gives you access to Gemini's core features. If you want to upgrade to Gemini Advanced (for more powerful models and Google One benefits), you can do so from your account settings.

AI prompt: "Give me 5 beginner-friendly questions to ask Gemini to explore its capabilities"

Privacy and integration with Google services

Because Gemini is made by Google, it can integrate with other Google services you use (like Gmail, Docs, and Drive). You can control these integrations in your account settings.

Keep in mind that Google uses your conversations to improve Gemini. Avoid sharing sensitive personal information like passwords, financial details, or private medical information. Review Google's privacy policy to understand how your data is handled.

Related resources

Now that you're signed up, learn what Gemini can do in What is Gemini and how does it work?. Curious about upgrading to Gemini Advanced? See Gemini free vs paid: What do you get?. For detailed tips on using Gemini effectively, visit Gemini tips and limitations.