How to build an AI Chatbot Using Python and Gemini AI (Step-by-Step Guide)

Python is a versatile programming language used for various applications—from data analysis and machine learning to web development and game creation. In this tutorial, you'll learn how to build your first AI-powered chatbot using Python and Google Gemini.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

• Basic knowledge of Python

• Python 3.9+ installed on your computer

• A Google Gemini API key

Step 1: Obtain a Google Gemini API Key

An API key is a unique code that authenticates a user or application, granting access to Google's Gemini AI model. Follow this quick guide in the video below to obtain your API key.

Step 2: Install Python (If Not Already Installed)

This tutorial assumes you have Python installed. If not, refer to the YouTube tutorial below for a step-by-step installation guide.

After installation, you can verify it by running:

python --version

Step 3: Set Up Your Chatbot

Open your terminal and navigate to your project folder.

Install the google-genai package by running:

pip install -q -U google-genai

Create a Python file (e.g., main.py) and paste the following code.

main.py:

from google import genai

my_api_key = "GEMINI_API_KEY"
my_model = "gemini-2.0-flash"

client = genai.Client(api_key=my_api_key)
chat = client.chats.create(model=my_model)


def prompt_ai():
    to_exit = False

    while not to_exit:
        user_prompt = input("\nPrompt: \n")

        if user_prompt != "exit":

            response = chat.send_message_stream(user_prompt)

            print("\nGemini: ")

            for chunk in response:
                print(chunk.text, end="")

        else:
            to_exit = True


prompt_ai()

Important: Replace GEMINI_API_KEY with your actual API key.

Step 4: Run Your AI Chatbot

To run your chatbot, execute the following command in your terminal:

python main.py

Troubleshooting Tips

• Command Not Recognized:

  • Ensure Python is installed correctly by running python --version.
  • Verify that you're in the correct project directory where main.py is located.

• API Issues:

  • Double-check that you’ve replaced "GEMINI_API_KEY"with a valid API key.
  • Confirm your internet connection is active, as the chatbot communicates with Google Gemini’s servers.

• Unexpected Errors:

  • Review the terminal output for any error messages.
  • Check your installation of the google-genai package by running pip show google-genai to confirm it is installed correctly.

Now, interact with your AI chatbot by entering prompts. To exit the program, simply type exit.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully built your first AI chatbot using Python and Google Gemini. This project is a great starting point. Next, you might consider expanding its functionality by adding error handling, a graphical user interface, or integrating it into a web application.

Happy coding!