Google recently introduced its Pixel hardware portfolio for the coming year, and one of the new products’ significant features was the incorporation of its Gemini AI engine. Gemini is not only a key component of phones, but it has now made its way into earphones, as seen in the new Google Pixel Buds Pro 2. So, what is Google Gemini, and might it be a major selling feature for the Google Pixel line?
What is Google Gemini used for?
Gemini is Google’s artificial intelligence software agent, available to assist with queries, tasks, and, with Gemini Live, general chat. Google CEO Sundar Pichai initially announced it in December 2023, and it is now available on the Gemini website, with Microsoft’s Copilot, ChatGPT, and a slew of other remarkable new AI services.
You can ask Gemini to explain topics in simple words, answer factual inquiries, generate visuals using text prompts, propose meal plans, write things for you, investigate a topic, and do a variety of other information-based jobs.
The incorporation into Android phones, particularly the latest Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold, has piqued people’s interest. Google demonstrated a variety of new on-device capabilities from Gemini, which appear to be both cool and useful.
For example, Gemini is beginning to integrate directly with other Google products such as Gmail, Maps, Calendar, Keep, and YouTube through new extensions that the firm is releasing.
These allow you to ask Gemini a question regarding something referenced in an email, and Gemini will find and answer it for you. Alternatively, if someone has emailed you a recipe, Gemini will be able to analyze it, make a shopping list of necessary goods, and save it to Google Keep.
There is also the option to ask Gemini questions about a video you are watching on YouTube. You may even take a photo of an upcoming event and have Gemini check your calendar to see if you’re available on that date.
Google’s Gemini webpage includes a description of the service’s various capabilities.
What is Gemini Live?
One of the most notable features unveiled by Google is the new Gemini Live. This is a conversational assistant that you can consult while arranging outings or events, or when seeking help and advice on a new topic, for example. It’s a voice interface that recognizes conventional speech patterns, so you can communicate with it just like you would a human. If you make a mistake or want to shift the subject, Gemini can handle interruptions and provide relevant responses based on the context of the conversation.
Because Gemini is a voice-first interface, it’s now integrated into the new Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2, allowing you to engage with the AI without taking your phone out of your pocket.
Is Google Gemini a replacement for Assistant?
Gemini is now the default assistant for Google Pixel 9. However, earlier versions use the more recognizable Google Assistant by default. It can set timers, operate smart home devices, send messages, and make phone calls, among other things.
Is Google Gemini available now?
You can access Google Gemini in a variety of ways. The Gemini web portal is an excellent resource for learning about the service’s capabilities. There’s also the Gemini app, which works on Android smartphones running Android 10 or later and have 2GB or more of RAM.
Gemini is now the default voice assistant in Android 14, although for the majority of devices (including the app), this version will process instructions and provide responses through Google’s Internet services.
The Pixel 8 Pro may employ Gemini Nano, the AI’s on-device version, to handle local tasks, as can the forthcoming Pixel 9 series. Other high-end Android phones will be able to use this version of the service. Google has said on the Gemini Nano website that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a will soon receive developer options.
Is Google Gemini AI free?
Some of the features mentioned above are free to use, such as asking questions and gathering information, but for more advanced features like Gemini integration into Google Docs, Gmail, and other apps, as well as the upcoming Gemini Live, you must sign up for Gemini Advanced, which is part of the One AI Premium tier. This will cost you £18.99/$20 per month.
There are other benefits, such as 2TB of Google Drive storage, a FitBit Premium subscription, a 10% shop credit when making a purchase from the Google shop, and other prizes.
Will older Pixel devices get Google Gemini?
The hardware specifications for the on-device Gemini Nano mean that it will only work on newer Pixel devices, which are limited to the Pixel 8 Pro and the forthcoming Pixel 9 devices. Earlier models will still be able to utilize the Gemini software, which runs on Google’s Internet servers.
