Google launches Skills platform with 3,000+ free AI courses

Google has launched Google Skills, a new online platform offering more than 3,000 AI courses and hands-on labs designed for learners at every level. The platform consolidates training from Google Cloud, Google DeepMind, Grow with Google, and Google for Education into a single destination, addressing the growing demand for AI expertise across industries while providing extensive free learning options.

What you should know: The platform caters to diverse learning needs with courses ranging from basic to advanced levels.

• Novice students can start with entry-level classes like Google AI Essentials to prepare for Google Cloud certification.
• Business professionals can access workplace-focused AI skills training with opportunities to earn badges and certificates.
• Experienced developers can dive into advanced topics like large language models through Google DeepMind’s AI Research Foundations.
• Quick learners can access 10-minute AI Boost Bites tutorials for rapid skill acquisition.

How it works: Users can access the platform through their Google account and receive monthly credits for hands-on learning.

• The platform provides 35 free credits each month through Google’s Innovators program for enrollment in hands-on labs.
• AI-driven labs teach coding skills through Gemini Code Assist and other practical applications.
• Users can track their progress, earn certifications, and share achievements on social media.
• The course catalog allows sorting by level, format, or badge type, with search functionality for specific courses.

Key features: Google Skills offers structured learning paths and specialized training tracks.

• Learning paths like “Build and Modernize Applications With Generative AI” feature 12 activities covering topics such as Gemini for developers and generative AI apps on Google Cloud.
• Each course displays completion time estimates and detailed descriptions before enrollment.
• The platform focuses exclusively on Google AI products and services, though the framework applies broadly to AI concepts.

The cost structure: While many courses are free, advanced features require subscription or credit usage.

• Basic courses are available at no cost to all users.
• Hands-on labs consume the monthly 35 free credits provided through the Innovators program.
• A Pro subscription costs $29 per month and provides unlimited access to thousands of courses and labs for users who exceed their free credits.

What they’re saying: Google emphasizes the platform’s role in addressing industry skill gaps.

• “Google Skills is your go-to platform for building essential AI and technical capabilities amid an ever-growing skills gap,” Google said in its Tuesday blog post.
• “It offers extensive no-cost options for learners at every level, like our Generative AI Leader learning path. Plus, with hundreds of courses for those new to AI, no prior experience is necessary.”