In a move to dismantle the “ecosystem lock-in” of AI chatbots, Google is reportedly testing a new feature called “Import AI Chats.” First spotted in early February 2026, this tool is designed to help you migrate your entire conversation history from rival platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, and Microsoft Copilot directly into Gemini.
1. How the “Import AI Chats” Feature Works
The feature aims to solve the “Groundhog Day” problem—the frustration of starting from scratch and re-explaining projects to a new AI.
- The Entry Point: The option has been spotted as a beta feature in the Gemini web client. It typically appears as a chat bubble icon or under the attachments (+) menu at the bottom of the chat box.
- The Process: 1. You export your data from the source platform (e.g., using ChatGPT’s “Export Data” in Settings). 2. You upload that file (typically a .zip or .json) into Gemini using the new import tool. 3. Gemini then reconstructs the threads, allowing you to pick up exactly where you left off.
- Scope: The tool reportedly retains not just text, but also media and attachments shared in those original conversations.
2. Other Switching Incentives
To sweeten the deal for those moving from ChatGPT, Google has also rolled out several high-fidelity features in early 2026:
- 4K Image Downloads: Gemini now supports downloading AI-generated images in 2K and 4K resolution, which Google explicitly markets as “best for print”—a feature currently superior to most standard chatbot exports.
- Unified Context: For those already in the Google ecosystem, Gemini can now pull context from Gmail, Docs, and Calendar to supplement the imported ChatGPT history, creating a more personalized assistant.
- “Likeness” Verification: A new security feature called Likeness (currently in beta) is being tested to help verify and authenticate video content, addressing deepfake concerns for professional users.
3. Privacy and Constraints
- Data Usage: Google has included a disclosure that imported chats will be stored in your Gemini activity. Crucially, the fine print suggests this data may be used to train future Google models unless you specifically opt out in settings.
- Fidelity Issues: Early testers have noted that while the text moves over, the “personality” or specific custom instructions you gave to ChatGPT might not translate perfectly, requiring some minor re-tuning in Gemini.
Conclusion: A Portability Revolution
The “Import AI Chats” feature represents a structural shift in the AI industry, moving toward a model where your “AI memory” is portable. By allowing users to bring months of project context with them, Google is betting that superior features like 4K generation and Workspace integration will keep users there once the friction of switching is removed.
