AI Everywhere: Top Android Apps to Consider
The Default AI App: Google Gemini
Android now ships with a default AI app, Google Gemini, which is baked deep into the operating system. Gemini is the best fit for the average user, with nothing to install or configure (at least for basic usage). However, it’s worth disabling the Gemini Workspaces extension to prevent the AI from using your Workspace files as a training ground. I’ve been using Google Gemini as my assistant since it was first made available and have found it to be a reliable tool. One non-assistant feature worth using is Gemini Live, which has helped me solve complex problems with complicated plot situations.
Alternative AI Apps:
1. Perplexity
Perplexity is my go-to for AI queries, with a simple-to-use UI and easy access to daily news summaries. I can create Spaces to better manage and categorize my queries, and view a library of my queries. Perplexity is AI done right for the mobile device, and is free to install and use.
2. DeepSeek
DeepSeek is an AI development firm based in Hangzhou, China, which has open-sourced many of its LLMs. The company has set out to challenge OpenAI with a reinforcement learning model. On the Google Play Store, you’ll find two versions of DeepSeek: Deep Think (an AI chatbot) and DeepSeek (an AI assistant). Go for DeepSeek, which allows for deep queries or more basic searches, as well as photo and image OCR and document upload. You can use DeepSeek for free on Android, although you do have to sign up for an account.
3. Microsoft Copilot
Copilot is a pretty good AI offering that allows for standard AI queries, help writing first drafts, getting advice, learning something, creating images, making plans, brainstorming ideas, and practicing a language. It’s also very good at summarizing the daily news for you. One thing missing from the Android Copilot app is the ability to do deep research, but it’s an easy entry point into the world of AI on Android. You can install and use Copilot for free, but you do have to sign up for an account.
4. Opera’s Aria
Opera’s Aria was the first AI tool I used, and it made naming characters easy. With Aria, you can ask standard AI queries, upload images, use voice to text, ask it to summarize the top news of the day, and even view sample queries you can run. Opera’s Aria is a bit of a slog to get to, but you can install and use it for free, without requiring a plan or sign-up.
Conclusion:
When it comes to AI on Android, you have many choices. Google Gemini is a great default option, but if you want more features, Perplexity, DeepSeek, Microsoft Copilot, and Opera’s Aria are all worth considering. Each app has its strengths and weaknesses, so it’s worth trying out a few to see which one works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Do I need to install an AI app on my Android device?
A: No, Google Gemini is already installed on your Android device, but you may want to consider installing an additional AI app for more features.
Q: Are these AI apps free?
A: Yes, all the apps mentioned in this article are free to install and use, although some may require signing up for an account.
Q: Can I use these AI apps on my desktop?
A: Some of the apps mentioned, such as Perplexity and Microsoft Copilot, are available on desktop devices as well as Android devices.
