Google has announced new tooling capabilities for its Gemini API, aimed at developers building agentic workflows. The latest update allows developers to combine Google’s built-in tools, such as Search and Maps, with their own custom functions in a single API request. This change removes the need for manual orchestration between built-in and custom tools, which previously introduced complexity and latency in automated workflows. The new features are available to developers using the Gemini 3 model family, expanding the range of supported functionalities.
Lots of great Gemini API updates shipping today 🛠️
— Logan Kilpatrick (@OfficialLoganK) March 18, 2026
1. Built-in tools (search, maps, file search) now work with function calling
2. We now do context circulation with built-in tools for better model performance
3. Grounding with Google Maps now works with Gemini 3!!
The update is designed for developers and businesses leveraging Gemini for advanced automation, particularly those who require seamless integration of public data sources and proprietary backend functions. The announcement highlights that these capabilities are now generally available within the Gemini API, making them accessible to all users who have access to the Gemini 3 models.
Technically, the update introduces cross-tool context circulation, which allows the model to preserve and utilize outputs from previous tool calls across multiple steps. Unique response IDs have also been implemented for all tool calls, improving traceability and debugging, especially during parallel function execution. Compared to prior versions, these enhancements reduce workflow complexity and improve reliability in multi-step, tool-driven processes.
Google’s Gemini platform continues to evolve as a leading solution for integrating AI-powered tools and custom functions. With this release, the company builds on feedback from its developer community by addressing common pain points in workflow orchestration and providing new technical capabilities for complex reasoning across tools.
