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Is Google Bard available in the EU?

Understanding Google Bard's Access in the European Union
Last Updated on December 5, 2023
Is Google Bard available in the EU?
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Bard AI, one of the major rivals of ChatGPT and Bing AI, is gradually gaining acceptance and popularity across the globe, including some parts of Europe. But the question remains, “Is Google Bard Available in the EU?” The generative AI chatbot, designed by the tech giant Google, aims to perform functions similar to OpenAI’s ChatGPT but with enhanced capabilities. Unlike ChatGPT, Bard can generate images and even graphics, giving it an edge over other large language models.

When Bard was initially released in March 2023, access was limited to selected individuals in the US and UK. The users had to join a waitlist before gaining access to the chatbot. However, in May of the same year, Bard AI expanded to 180 countries, excluding the European Union (EU) countries like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. This exclusion was due to data privacy concerns and the need for compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

In June 2023, Google’s attempt to launch Bard AI in the EU was thwarted by the Irish regulator, the Irish Data Protection Commission. This move highlighted the ongoing challenges related to privacy and the correct pronunciation of a word in the context of large language models like Bard. The situation continues to evolve, and the availability of Bard in the EU remains a topic of interest for many, including Microsoft and other key players in the tech industry.

When Did Bard AI become Available in the EU?

In July 2023, Bard AI was launched in the EU alongside Brazil. Some new features also came along with the launch. Currently, Bard is available in over 230 countries and territories, including the EU.

How Many Languages Does Google Bard Support?

Bard AI is currently available in over 40 different languages. Some of these languages include English, Arabic, Japanese, German, French, Swahili, Spanish, Portuguese, Hindi, Latvian, Danish, Croatian, Russian, Czech, Romanian, and Danish, among others.

Are all the Features Available in Every Country?

All the Bard AI features are not available in some countries and territories. As a result, some features may be available in one country and unavailable in another.

Who Can Use Bard?

You must be 18 years or older to use Bard AI. In addition, you need to have a personal Google account that you manage or a Google Workspace account with access to Bard. Google accounts managed by Family Link cannot access Bard AI.

Maria is a full-stack digital marketing strategist interested in productivity and AI tools.