Google Gemini on Your Phone

The Future of Google-Powered Digital Assistants: What You Can Do with Gemini

Pay or Not?
Gemini, the new AI-powered digital assistant from Google, comes preinstalled on Google Pixel 9 phones and can be installed on older Pixels and non-Pixel handsets. There’s also an app for iPhone. You can grab the Gemini app for free on Android and iOS, sign in with your Google account, and switch.

Chatting with Gemini
The Gemini interface is simple: input your question or comment at the bottom of the screen, and the answer appears at the top. You can interact with Gemini using four methods: typing, using the mic icon to verbalize your request, using the camera icon to query an image, or using the sound wave icon to talk to Gemini Live.

What Can You Do?
Gemini can respond to a variety of topics, such as:

• "Give me some birthday theme ideas for a 5-year-old."
• "Draft the text of an email telling my boss I want a promotion."
• "Which sci-fi podcasts should I be listening to?"
• "Write a poem about the iPhone 16."

Image Generation and More
You can get Gemini to generate images using Google’s Imagen 3 engine, regardless of whether you pay for Gemini Advanced. However, you can’t generate images of people unless you’re a subscriber. You can also use the camera icon to take a photo to add to your prompt or upload an image from your gallery.

Extensions and Capabilities
Gemini is gradually gaining more capabilities across the web and mobile apps, and Google is releasing these upgrades as individual extensions. These extensions can add to Gemini’s capabilities, such as being able to set a timer or control your smart lights.

Putting Gemini to Work
You can use extensions to add to Gemini’s capabilities, such as:

• Google Map: "What’s on my schedule for this weekend?"
• Gmail: "Tell me about the emails I got today."
• YouTube Music: "Play some R.E.M. tunes."
• Google Maps: "How long will it take me to drive to Los Angeles?"
• Utilities: "Set an alarm for 7AM tomorrow."

Conclusion
Gemini is undoubtedly where Google will be investing its time and effort in the future. While it may not yet support multiple music streaming services or smart home controls, it’s a powerful tool that’s worth exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between Gemini and Google Assistant?
A: Gemini is a new AI-powered digital assistant that replaces Google Assistant, offering more advanced capabilities and features.

Q: Can I still use Google Assistant?
A: Yes, you can still use Google Assistant on your phone if you prefer.

Q: Can I switch back to Google Assistant?
A: Yes, you can switch back to Google Assistant from the Settings app.

Q: What are the limitations of Gemini?
A: Gemini currently does not support multiple music streaming services, smart home controls, or routines from a single voice command.