Pre-class setup · Google Gemini
Set up Google Gemini
Gemini runs in your browser — there's nothing to install. You need a Google account and, for some classes, a paid Gemini plan. Most of our training works on the free tier.
The short version
Sign in to Google, open gemini.google.com, send a test prompt. Done. The friction in this one isn't the install — it's the account you sign in with: personal Gmail vs. a Google Workspace account locked down by your IT team behave differently.
Prerequisites
- A Google account. A regular Gmail address is fine. Workspace accounts (your work email on Google) work too, but admins can disable Gemini at the org level — see troubleshooting below.
- A modern browser. Chrome, Edge, Safari, or Firefox — all current versions work. Chrome gets the new features first.
- An active internet connection. Everything runs server-side; nothing is stored locally.
Free vs. paid
- Free tier covers our standard training. Daily message limits apply but they're generous enough for class.
- Gemini Advanced (around AUD $32.99/month, bundled in Google One AI Premium) unlocks the larger Gemini models, longer context, and Deep Research. Required for some advanced sessions — your course confirmation email will say if you need it.
- Workspace plans — if your org has a Google Workspace Business or Enterprise plan with Gemini included, that gives you the same access. Ask your admin.
Install steps
- Sign in to (or create) a Google account at accounts.google.com.
- Go to gemini.google.com. Accept the terms when prompted.
- Send a test prompt — anything ("What's the time in Melbourne?" works). Confirm it responds.
- Check the model picker (top of the page). For most training the default model is fine; if your course requires a specific model the trainer will say so.
- Optional: if the session needs Gemini Advanced, upgrade at one.google.com/explore-plan/gemini-advanced — first month is usually free.
gemini.google.com loads with your account avatar in the top-right corner and you've successfully sent at least one prompt and received a response.
Troubleshooting
Gemini won't load — I see "not available for your account"
You're signed in with a Google Workspace account where the admin has disabled Gemini. Either ask IT to enable it, or sign in with a personal Gmail account in a separate browser profile / incognito window. (Switching accounts inside Gemini does not work around an admin block.)
Gemini asks me to verify my age, region, or phone number
Follow Google's prompts — the free tier works across Australia. Gemini has a minimum age requirement; younger accounts will be refused. If verification keeps failing on a Workspace account, try a personal Gmail.
I have Google One but no "Gemini Advanced" option
Plain Google One doesn't include Gemini Advanced — you need Google One AI Premium specifically. Upgrade from inside Google One settings, or start fresh at one.google.com/explore-plan/gemini-advanced.
I'm stuck — how do I get help before the session?
Email hello@realmindsai.au. We respond within 48 hours. If your work account is the blocker, mention that — we'll often suggest a personal Google account as the path of least resistance.