What Is PaLM 2? Google’s Older AI Model Explained

Lesson 09 / 20 · AI for absolute beginners

PaLM, explained simply.

PaLM 2 is an older language model from Google. PaLM is the wider family name. It belongs to an earlier generation than Google’s Gemini models.

← Start with the AI basics

New to AI? You only need three labels to begin: the company makes the technology, the model is the engine, and the app is what you open. A method is a recipe developers use to build or teach AI.

Made byGoogle

What kind of thing?Older language engine

Can I use it directly?Google’s everyday assistant is now Gemini, a different model family.

An open notebook with a speech bubble, paper boat and bright light bulb representing words and ideas. — A question, a picture or an idea can be a starting point. The model’s job depends on what it was built to do.

See the idea in three steps

Start withA language task

AI helps withAn older Google model

You getGenerated writing

A simple illustration of the idea. Results depend on the model, training and app.

A familiar way to picture it

An everyday analogyThink of an earlier generation of engine from a company that now offers a different engine family.

An analogy helps you understand the main idea. It is not a description of every technical detail.

A simple PaLM example

An app using it could explain a difficult paragraph in simpler words.

A person gives a language task to an app built with a PaLM model.

The model processes the request and generates text.

The app presents the result to the person.

Is PaLM 2 the same as Gemini?

No. They are different Google model families. PaLM 2 belongs to an earlier generation. If your aim is to try Google’s general assistant today, start with Gemini rather than searching for a PaLM chat app.

Where can I try it or learn more?

Google’s everyday assistant is now Gemini, a different model family.

Try Gemini ↗

A maker’s page or research page may explain the technology rather than provide a chat box. Available models, features and access can change.

A small activity for you

Make a small table with three labels: Google, PaLM 2 and Gemini app. Identify the company, an older model and a current app.

You do not need to memorise model sizes or write a program to understand this lesson. First explain the idea in your own words. If you want to build an app later, the official resources are your next step.

Common beginner questions

Is PaLM 2 the same as Gemini?

Who made PaLM?

Google. Google’s everyday assistant is now Gemini, a different model family.

How can I start learning this topic?

Make a small table with three labels: Google, PaLM 2 and Gemini app. Identify the company, an older model and a current app.

Keep learning

These related lessons help you compare the names without getting lost in technical details.

See all 20 AI names and the seven-day learning plan →

Sources and review date

Reviewed 3 November 2026. Examples and analogies are written for beginners. Product facts are linked to the maker, original project or research below.