Google has unveiled "Disco," a new AI experiment from Google Labs designed to transform open browser tabs into custom web applications. Powered by Google's Gemini AI, Disco introduces a feature called "GenTabs," which proactively suggests and helps users build interactive web apps tailored to their browsing activities.
GenTabs aims to streamline complex online tasks by creating personalized applications on the fly. For instance, if a user is researching a specific academic subject, GenTabs could suggest building a web app to visualize the information, aiding in a deeper understanding of core principles. Beyond academic use, GenTabs can assist with practical tasks, such as compiling a meal plan from various online recipes or organizing travel details while researching a trip.
While some AI-powered chatbots offer similar functionalities, GenTabs distinguishes itself by leveraging Gemini 3 to construct these custom experiences dynamically. It utilizes information directly from the user's browser and Gemini chat history. Once an app is generated, users can further refine it using natural language commands, ensuring a highly personalized and adaptable tool. Google notes that all generative elements within the GenTabs experience will link back to their original sources, maintaining transparency.
This initiative aligns with Google's broader strategy to integrate AI more deeply into the web browsing experience. Rather than developing standalone AI browsers like Perplexity's Comet or ChatGPT Atlas, Google has focused on embedding its Gemini AI assistant directly into the Chrome browser. This integration allows users to ask questions about the webpage they are currently viewing, enhancing their interaction with online content.
With GenTabs, the focus expands beyond the currently active tab to encompass a user's entire browsing task across multiple tabs, whether for research, learning, or other purposes. This holistic approach aims to provide a more cohesive and efficient browsing experience.
Initially, Disco will be accessible to a limited number of testers through Google Labs, who will provide valuable feedback on the experience. Google indicates that promising ideas developed through Disco may eventually be incorporated into other, larger Google products. GenTabs is presented as the "first feature" being tested within Disco, suggesting that more AI-powered functionalities are planned for the future.
Users interested in accessing Disco will need to join a waitlist to download the application, which will first be available on macOS.
