BBVA is enhancing its digital transformation and AI adoption strategy by expanding its partnership with Google Cloud, specifically deploying Google Workspace integrated with Gemini.

This initiative is designed to empower BBVA's 100,000 employees with secure generative AI tools within applications like Gmail, Google Docs, and Google Sheets, which will facilitate the automation of repetitive tasks.

Elena Alfaro, Global Head of AI Adoption at BBVA, emphasized that the partnership aims to simplify tasks and boost productivity and innovation among teams.

Currently, employees are saving an average of nearly three hours per week by automating repetitive tasks using AI, allowing them to concentrate on more strategic, customer-oriented activities.

Previously, BBVA deployed 11,000 ChatGPT licenses from OpenAI to support its AI initiatives, laying the groundwork for this new phase.

To ensure responsible use of AI, BBVA has introduced a mandatory training program called 'AI Express', which aligns with the EU's AI Act and internal policies; employees must complete this training to access the new AI tools.

Access to Google Workspace with Gemini and other AI tools will be granted only to those who have completed the internal training, ensuring ethical and effective use of the technologies.

In addition to Google Workspace, employees will also have access to the standalone Gemini app and NotebookLM, an AI-powered research assistant that aids in research and report generation.

With the new agreement, employees will utilize Gemini for tasks such as summarizing and drafting emails, creating professional documents and presentations, and taking notes during calls.

Juan Ortigosa, Global Head of Workplace at BBVA, expressed optimism that the integration of generative AI will enhance productivity and improve the work experience for all employees.

He highlighted that the adoption of generative AI is expected to foster a dynamic work environment, benefiting employees across all roles.