Google has announced a significant expansion of its Gemini AI app, bringing new features and wider availability to users worldwide. However, the rollout isn't without its quirks, leaving some Android devices in the dark.
Expanded Availability and Features
- The Gemini app is now accessible in more countries and languages on Android.
- iOS users will see Gemini integration in the Google app in the coming weeks.
- New voice assistant capabilities make Gemini a more robust Google Assistant replacement:
- Setting timers
- Making phone calls
- Managing smart home devices (with some limitations)
- Gemini can now be activated similarly to Google Assistant (power button press, Hey Google command, corner swipe on supported devices).
- Gemini Extensions allow the AI to access information from other Google apps and services (with user opt-in).
Desktop Integration
Chrome users can now interact with Gemini directly from the address bar by typing @gemini followed by a prompt.
The Availability Puzzle
Despite Google's claim that Gemini works on Android phones with 2GB+ RAM running Android 10 or newer, some devices meeting these requirements are still unsupported:
- The Motorola Razr, initially supported, can no longer install the app.
- Some carrier-specific models of supported phones (e.g., AT&T Galaxy Z Flip 5) can't access Gemini.
- Google hasn't provided a comprehensive list of supported devices.
Potential Reasons for Limited Availability
- Performance concerns: Google may be cautious about releasing Gemini on devices where it doesn't meet internal quality standards.
- Software compatibility: Differences in how manufacturers customize Android could cause integration issues.
- Staged rollout: Google might be gradually expanding availability to manage server load and gather user feedback.
What This Means for Users
- If you have a supported device, Gemini offers an increasingly capable AI assistant experience.
- Users with unsupported phones will have to wait for further updates from Google.
- The lack of transparency around device compatibility remains a point of frustration for some Android users.
As Google continues to refine and expand Gemini, it's clear the company sees it as a central part of its AI strategy. However, the somewhat confusing rollout highlights the challenges of deploying advanced AI assistants across the diverse Android ecosystem.