Google's Gemini chatbot reaches 750 million active users, enhancing Alphabet's performance while still trailing ChatGPT.
Google's Gemini chatbot has seen its monthly active users (MAU) soar to 750 million, as revealed in the company's Q4 2025 earnings report. This marks a significant surge from 650 million users in the prior quarter, positioning Gemini ahead of Meta AI, which has 500 million MAU.
Despite its impressive growth, Gemini remains behind ChatGPT, which currently has 810 million users. The uptick in user engagement follows the recent launch of Gemini 3, an AI model that has excelled in performance evaluations. Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai, highlighted the positive influence of the neural network's integration on the company's growth trajectory, reinforced by ongoing investments in AI.
To broaden its reach, Google rolled out a cost-effective subscription plan, Google AI Plus, in September across more than 40 countries, including nations like Ukraine and Egypt, aiming to attract a diverse audience and propel further adoption.
Strategic Investments and Revenue Growth
Gemini's success has been pivotal in driving Alphabet's record growth, with the company’s annual revenue surpassing $400 billion for the first time. This growth is attributed to advancements in AI technology, with plans for aggressive investment in the sector moving forward.
For the upcoming year, Alphabet has earmarked between $175 billion to $185 billion for capital expenditures, significantly increasing its financial commitment compared to the previous year. The company anticipates substantial expense growth in 2026, as it aims to outpace other major tech firms in budget projections.
Industry analysts are monitoring this trend with caution, as concerns about a potential bubble in the AI space grow. HSBC's CEO, Georges Elhedery, remarked that the current revenue levels from AI ventures may not support the massive computing costs required. Pichai acknowledged that no firm is shielded from a downturn in the AI market, noting signs of "irrationality" in current market enthusiasm. Reports have also surfaced indicating that OpenAI may be operating at a loss despite high expenses.
