Google Cloud Next 2026: AI Agents and the Full-Stack Challenge
Google’s Agentic Enterprise Play
Google has recently launched its agentic enterprise platform, rebranding and consolidating its AI efforts under the name Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform. This move follows the absorption of Agentspace into a unified product called Gemini Enterprise. The announcements at Cloud Next 2026 include:
- Workspace Studio: A no-code agent builder for Google Workspace, allowing business users to create and deploy AI agents across various tools without coding.
- Over 200 models in Model Garden: Including options from Anthropic, such as their Claude model.
- Project Mariner: A web-browsing agent designed for specific tasks.
- Managed MCP Servers: With Apigee serving as an API-to-agent bridge.
- A2A Protocol v1.0 in Production: Now used by 150 organizations, enabling cross-platform agent communication.
Strategic Differentiation
Thomas Kurian, Google Cloud’s CEO, emphasized the company’s strategy during the keynote, contrasting it with competitors: "Other vendors are handing you the pieces, not the platform." Google aims to own the full stack, from chip to inbox, giving them an advantage over OpenAI and Anthropic.
Market Positioning
With AWS and Microsoft Azure leading in cloud market share, Google is fighting for its position. Their growth rate in Q4 2025 was the fastest among the three at 50% year-on-year. By vertically integrating their AI platform with hardware, software, and distribution through Google Workspace, they aim to differentiate themselves from competitors who offer modular components.
The Agent Stack
The agent stack is a comprehensive solution that includes various components:
- Model Runtime: Ensuring efficient execution of AI models.
- Silicon: Referring to hardware capabilities for faster processing.
- Distribution Channel: Google Workspace provides a unified platform for agent deployment and automation.