In a bold move that marks a significant shift in mobile technology, Google and Samsung have teamed up to supercharge the Android experience with groundbreaking AI capabilities. This week, Samsung announced the replacement of its Bixby assistant with Gemini, an advanced AI that promises to redefine how we interact with our devices. This collaboration signals a transformative era not just for Samsung Galaxy users but for millions of Android enthusiasts globally.
Multitasking Made Easy with Gemini’s New Multimodal Feature
One of the most exciting updates is the introduction of Gemini’s new multimodal feature, which allows the AI to perform tasks across multiple applications with a single command. Imagine asking your phone to locate the best Caribbean restaurants in North London and then having those suggestions sent directly to a friend on WhatsApp. This isn’t a scene from a sci-fi movie—it’s the reality Gemini is creating today. “This new multimodal feature works in conjunction with Gemini’s app extensions,” Google explained, noting the integration with popular apps like Spotify, Messages, and WhatsApp.
This enhancement is about simplifying your digital life. It’s about making your smartphone an even smarter companion that understands your needs and executes commands seamlessly across a suite of applications. For instance, asking Gemini to check for upcoming Mobb Deep concerts in London and adding them to your calendar is now effortless.
Beyond Voice Commands: Integrating AI with Daily Tasks
While voice-activated assistants have been around for years, their potential has often felt underutilized. Gemini’s latest updates aim to correct these shortcomings by making AI assistants more like true personal aides. They are not just about hearing but also about doing, shifting from simple voice responses to proactive task management.
However, it’s essential to recognize the feature’s current limitations. For example, while Gemini can manage tasks within Google and Samsung’s ecosystem, it won’t, as of now, send messages or book appointments outside these approved apps. This means users still need to handle some actions manually, maintaining a level of quality control and personal touch that automated systems can’t fully replicate yet.
Enhancing Visual and Conversational AI with Gemini Live
Adding to its repertoire, Gemini Live now supports interactive features such as image uploads, file sharing, and YouTube video discussions. This feature is tailored for newer models like the Pixel 9 and the Galaxy S24 and S25, enhancing the conversational experience and making AI interactions more dynamic and responsive to real-time user inputs.
Moreover, Google has upgraded its “Circle to Search” function with AI Overviews that provide instant summaries atop search results, blending AI’s analytical power with user-friendly interfaces. This feature, although criticized for accuracy issues since its inception, represents Google’s commitment to refining AI tools that offer practical benefits to users.
A Free Upgrade with Long-Term Implications
What’s particularly noteworthy about these updates is that they do not require new hardware or additional subscriptions. Google’s strategy to roll out these advanced features to existing devices not only maximizes accessibility but also underscores a shift towards more sustainable tech practices, where software innovations prolong the lifecycle of hardware products.
