Getting a Google (Gemini) Key
Connecting NorthSignal to Google gives you access to the Gemini family, which is uniquely powerful due to its massive context window — it can read entire books or codebases in a single prompt.
What Models Does This Unlock?
| Model | Best For | Speed |
|---|---|---|
Gemini 2.0 Pro | Long-context analysis (PDFs, codebases, books) | ⚡ Fast |
Gemini 2.0 Flash | Quick tasks with long inputs | ⚡⚡ Very fast |
Step 1: Visit Google AI Studio
Google manages its Gemini API access through a developer tool called AI Studio.
- Go to aistudio.google.com
- Log in with your standard Google Account.
Step 2: Accept the Terms
If this is your first time visiting AI Studio:
- Read through the Terms of Service.
- Check the box to agree.
- Click continue to enter the dashboard.
Step 3: Generate the Key
Getting a Gemini key is the fastest process among the three providers.
- Inside AI Studio, click Get API Key in the left sidebar.
- Click the blue Create API key button.
- If prompted, select Create API key in new project (or choose an existing Google Cloud project).
How Much Will It Cost?
Google currently offers a generous free tier for the Gemini API with rate limits. For most casual users, the Gemini API may be entirely free. Heavy users will pay per-token rates similar to other providers.
| Usage Level | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Casual | Free (within rate limits) |
| Moderate | $1 – $5 |
| Heavy | $5 – $20 |
If you're just starting out and want to try NorthSignal without spending money, Google's Gemini key is the best choice — it has a free tier.
Step 4: Copy the Key
A text field will reveal a long string of characters. This is your API Key.
- Click the Copy button next to the text field.
Keep this key secret. Never post it publicly online or in GitHub repositories.
Step 5: Paste it into NorthSignal
- Navigate to NorthSignal.
- Click the Settings (Gear Icon) in the bottom left.
- Select the Google tab.
- Paste your key and click Save Settings.
You now have access to Gemini's massive context window inside NorthSignal!