Google Native Tools (Gemini)
Gemini models have a set of Google native tools integrated directly into the model. Unlike universal tools, these tools are handled server-side without extra function-calling overhead.
Available Google Native Tools
| Tool | Tool key | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Google Search | googleSearch | Search for current information via Google |
| Code Execution | codeExecution | Write and execute Python code in a sandbox |
| URL Context | urlContext | Retrieve content from a specific URL |
| Google Maps | googleMaps | Search for locations and request route info |
How it works
When you select a Gemini model and enable one or more Google native tools, these tools are handled directly by the model. The AI automatically decides when to use which tool based on your question.
Exclusivity
Google native tools are exclusive: when a Google native tool is enabled, universal tools (such as Internet Search or Image Search) are automatically disabled. This ensures optimal compatibility with Gemini models.
Settings
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Available for | Gemini models |
| Exclusive | Yes (replaces universal tools) |
Advantages over Universal Tools
| Google Native Tools | Universal Tools |
|---|---|
| Directly integrated in Gemini | External API call |
| No extra function-calling round | Extra latency from tool call |
| Optimized for Gemini | Works with all models |
| Server-side handling | Client-side tool dispatching |
Code Execution with Files
Files attached in chat are automatically uploaded to the Gemini Files API before the code execution tool is invoked. After completion, the uploaded files are automatically cleaned up. This makes it possible to directly analyze CSV files, images, or other data.
Example Use Cases
- Google Search: "What was the news today about AI legislation?"
- Code Execution: "Calculate the average score of these grades: 7, 8, 6, 9, 7"
- URL Context: "What is on the page https://example.com/document?"
- Google Maps: "What is the route from our office to the client?"
Limitations
- Only available with Gemini models
- Cannot be used simultaneously with universal tools or other native tools (exclusive)
- Requires the organization to have Gemini models enabled
Related Tools
- Code Interpreter (OpenAI) — similar code execution for OpenAI models
- Code Execution (Claude) — similar code execution for Claude models
- Internet Search — universal search tool for all models