Google has shared new details about the expansion of AI chatbot Gemini to a wide range of devices. The rollout is another step in the gradual departure from Google Assistant. We will start seeing Gemini on smartwatches, with earbuds from other brands (such as Samsung and Sony) and in cars’s.
Gemini to more devices
Google tonight held The Android Show, an announcement event before the start of Google I/O next week. With the new announcement, we see a lot of new improvements that are ready for Android. Consider, for example, the new Material 3 Expressive design that is coming. However, Google has announced even more improvements, and they are now about Gemini.
Gemini on Wear OS
Gemini will soon be available on Wear OS devices. Presumably with the arrival of the new Wear OS 6. The rollout will take place in the coming months. Users will then be able to talk to Gemini directly through their smartwatch. Thanks to its underlying technology, the large language model LLM, it is possible to communicate with natural language, without using fixed commands.
This functionality makes Gemini useful in situations where a smartphone is less practical, such as while cooking or cycling. The assistant can be connected to apps and used for tasks such as setting reminders or answering questions you have after receiving an email.
Android Auto and cars with Android
Gemini also gets a bigger role in the car. The rollout will start with Android Auto and later expand to vehicles with Google Built-in, the integrated Android Automotive OS. These systems already support Google Assistant, but are now being prepared for the switch to Gemini. Earlier, it became clear that Google Assistant is being parted with.
Google promises a more natural interaction with Gemini, with shorter, spoken responses that are less distracting to the driver. Users can have messages summarised, translated and sent via voice, or even give commands such as finding a charging station on a specific route. In addition, Gemini will integrate with popular apps such as Maps, Gmail, Drive and Spotify. Some features require an active internet connection, but vehicles with powerful hardware and Google Built-in will get partial offline support.
The car experience will be further enriched with Gemini Live, which allows users to have a natural conversation with the assistant. This feature is not limited to one voice, so all occupants can join in the conversation.
Earbuds
At The Android Show, Google confirmed that Gemini will also become available on earbuds from Sony and Samsung later this year. Previously, the chatbot was limited to Pixel Buds, but that will now change. While not all supported models are known yet, it seems that the more expensive variants will be the first to go, thinking of the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, among others.
Furthermore, Google plans to make Gemini available on Google TV devices, Android XR headsets and tablets. The first XR headset with Gemini functionality is expected by the end of the year. This XR headset will roll out of Samsung's factory.
